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CPSC Moderate Active

Western Gas Recalls to Inspect Propane Gas Due To Fire and Burn Hazards

Reported: December 28, 2017 Initiated: December 28, 2017 #18073

Product Description

This recall involves under-odorized propane (LP) gas delivered to consumers' storage tanks or sold at retail locations in portable cylinders (for use in recreational vehicles, barbeques, stoves and other appliances). Propane tanks that have been inspected for the level of odorant or have been refilled after November 2017 are not affected.

Reason for Recall

The recalled propane may not contain sufficient levels of odorant to help alert consumers to a gas leak. Failure to detect leaking gas can present fire, explosion and thermal burn hazards.

Remedy

Consumers should not attempt to test the propane themselves. Instead, consumers who have propane delivered to storage tanks should immediately contact their supplier or Western Gas to determine whether their propane is affected and arrange for a free inspection. If the inspection confirms the propane contains insufficient levels of odorant, Western Gas will promptly arrange for additional odorization or replacement of the under-odorized propane. Consumers who have purchased a portable cylinder should contact the retailer or the Western Gas hotline to determine whether their propane may be affected and if so, return the cylinder to the retailer for a replacement. If consumers do smell even a faint odor of gas or a gas leak, they should immediately leave the building and call 911 or their gas supplier from a neighbor’s phone. Do not light a match, turn on a light or switch on anything electrical.

Frequently Asked Questions

What product was recalled?
This recall involves under-odorized propane (LP) gas delivered to consumers' storage tanks or sold at retail locations in portable cylinders (for use in recreational vehicles, barbeques, stoves and other appliances). Propane tanks that have been inspected for the level of odorant or have been refilled after November 2017 are not affected.. Recalled by Western Gas Partners LP, of The Woodlands, Texas. Units affected: About 45.7 million gallons.
Why was this product recalled?
The recalled propane may not contain sufficient levels of odorant to help alert consumers to a gas leak. Failure to detect leaking gas can present fire, explosion and thermal burn hazards.
What should consumers do?
Consumers should not attempt to test the propane themselves. Instead, consumers who have propane delivered to storage tanks should immediately contact their supplier or Western Gas to determine whether their propane is affected and arrange for a free inspection. If the inspection confirms the propane contains insufficient levels of odorant, Western Gas will promptly arrange for additional odorization or replacement of the under-odorized propane. Consumers who have purchased a portable cylinder should contact the retailer or the Western Gas hotline to determine whether their propane may be affected and if so, return the cylinder to the retailer for a replacement. If consumers do smell even a faint odor of gas or a gas leak, they should immediately leave the building and call 911 or their gas supplier from a neighbor’s phone. Do not light a match, turn on a light or switch on anything electrical.
Which agency issued this recall?
This recall was issued by the CPSC on December 28, 2017. Severity: Moderate. Recall number: 18073.