Safety Information - Public Safety Tips - Gas Flooding

Gas safety in flood situations

Heavy rainfall and snowmelt runoff can cause flooding in many BC communities and, as a result, damage to gas appliances can occur. Here are guidelines to follow in order to protect natural or propane gas piping and appliances in the event of a flood and to place gas appliances back in service after a flood.

When a flood is about to occur

If severe flooding is expected and time allows, have a licensed gas contractor do the following:

Remove hot water tanks, clothes dryers and ranges.
Cap the gas pipe leading to the appliance shut off valve.
Remove the electric motor, burner and controls from your furnace and shut off the gas and electrical supply.
If there is a propane tank present, disconnect the tubing to the tan, plug it securely, and prevent it from floating away.

If there is no advance warning of flooding or a licensed gas contractor is not available, proceed with the following steps:

Turn off the service valve at the gas meter or propane tank and the gas shut off valve on all gas appliances.
Turn off the electrical power to each appliance.
Do not drain hot water tanks - just shut off the water leading to and from the tank.
After shutting off the propane supply valve, fasten a cable, heavy rope, or chain around any propane tanks that are present and secure to a pole, building, or other substantial structure. This is to prevent the tanks from moving or floating away and causing other damage.

Returning after a flood

Natural gas and piped propane smell like rotten eggs or sulphur. When returning after a flood and you smell gas or detect other signs of a gas leak, remember to take the following steps:

Extinguish all smoking materials and open flames.
Do not touch electrical switches, light matches or candles, or use the phone.
Exit the building immediately.
Turn off the gas valve on the meter. (for helpful instructions on how to turn off the gas meter)
From a neighbour's house or a safe area, phone the gas utility or the fire department.
Do not re-enter the building until it has been inspected.

Do not attempt to place natural or propane gas appliances back in service by yourself. Natural or propane gas household appliances that have been submerged in water should be inspected by a licensed gas contractor. Note that water damage to gas equipment and appliances is not always readily apparent. A complete inspection of the entire system by a licensed gas contractor must be carried out before attempting to operate the gas equipment. Contact your natural or propane gas utility to have your meter and regulator checked before using the gas system.

Checking for water damage

Have a licensed gas contractor inspect all appliances and components that were submerged or damaged by water. Check that all electrical components are clean and dry.

Water, dirt, or debris may have entered the regulator through the vent. Other flood damage could be wet motor windings in furnaces and clothes dryers, and mud or silt in burners, switches, or controls.

All piping must be checked and cleaned, and all leaks repaired. Flood water can damage building foundations causing shifting or settling, which may damage gas piping systems. Gas piping that has been submerged and was not plugged or capped properly may be clogged with mud or debris. Piping must be pressure tested by a licensed gas contractor.

Have the licensed gas contractor also check the water heater for flood water. If flood water reached the gas burner, electrical components, or insulation, it should be replaced or cleaned by a professional. Be sure to flush clean water through the water heater before washing clothes and dishes with hot water.

Checking for natural gas leaks

A way to test for natural gas leaks is to brush a solution of half soap and half water over all the connections in the piping, valves, appliance connections, and valve train. Bubbles will form if a leak is present. Mark the location of the leak and contact a licensed gas contractor to make the necessary repairs.

For electrical installations, refer to Electrical Safety: Guidelines on What to Do in the Event of Flooding .
For the BCSA licensed contractor search click here.