Floods are among the most common natural disasters in the U.S. They can happen anywhere, often with little warning, and can leave communities without power, clean water, or safe shelter. For propane users, preparation and caution are essential before, during, and after a flood.
At Blue Rhino, we’re committed to helping you stay safe through all kinds of weather. We also partner with Operation BBQ Relief (OBR) to provide hot BBQ meals and hope to communities recovering from natural disasters, including flooding.
Here’s how to protect yourself and your outdoor propane appliances before and after a flood.
Before the Flood
A little preparation can go a long way in saving lives and prop
Secure Your Propane Tanks and Outdoor Appliances
Preparation is the first and most important step in flood safety for propane users. Start by ensuring your propane tanks and outdoor appliances are secured outdoors in a safe, stable location. The valve on your propane tank should be tightly closed, and any outdoor appliances such as grills, heaters, and fire pits should be disconnected. Never bring propane tanks indoors or store them in enclosed areas like basements, garages, sheds, or tents, as this poses a serious safety risk.
Make A Plan
It’s also wise to create a communication and power backup plan before a flood arrives. Charge smartphones and portable battery packs so you can stay connected during a power outage. For longer-term reliability, consider investing in a propane generator. There are both portable and whole-home options. They are a great choice for flood preparedness because propane can be stored safely and used at a moment’s notice, regardless of power interruptions. For even more preparedness tips, read our 5 Smart Ways to Prepare for Severe Weather blog.
Follow Emergency Instructions
If emergency officials issue evacuation orders, follow them immediately and do not take propane tanks with you. Stay tuned to weather alerts and local guidance so you know when it is safe to return and check your propane equipment. If you smell gas, make sure all tank valves are closed. If you still detect an odor, isolate the leaking tank from any source of ignition and call Blue Rhino at 1.800.258.7466 for assistance.
After the Flood
Proper clean-up and safety checks are critical before using propane again.
Handle Damaged Tanks Properly
If your propane tank has been impacted by floodwater, it should not be used, refilled, or repaired on your own. Flood-damaged propane tanks must be inspected by a trained professional or returned to an authorized repair facility. Blue Rhino will only accept reusable tanks for exchange. You can find a nearby retail location to exchange for a fresh, certified tank. However, Blue Rhino can help recycle unwanted tanks and outdoor appliances.
Inspect Your Outdoor Appliances
Once floodwaters have receded, propane safety remains a top priority. Before using any outdoor propane appliance, inspect it for visible damage or signs of water exposure. Outdoor appliances with electrical components that have been submerged in water can present a fire hazard. When in doubt, consult the manufacturer before using grills, firepits, generators, or other propane-powered devices that have been exposed to floodwater.
Do Not Use Outdoor Propane Appliances Indoors
Never use propane appliances intended for outdoor use, such as portable heaters, grills, griddles, fire pits, or generators, indoors or in enclosed spaces. Doing so can lead to deadly carbon monoxide poisoning. Wait until all standing water has receded before operating propane equipment and avoid handling propane tanks in wet conditions.
How Blue Rhino and Operation BBQ Relief Help After Floods
Flood recovery takes more than waiting for the water to recede. It also requires restoring comfort and hope. That’s why Blue Rhino proudly supports Operation BBQ Relief. This incredible organization delivers fresh, hot barbecue to communities affected by natural disasters. Their disaster response team is always ready to serve, and we are proud to power their efforts by supplying the propane that fuels their grills and smokers reliably and safely when it is needed most.
During a recent flood relief deployment in Kerrville, Texas, Operation BBQ Relief served more than 45,000 meals over to displaced families, utility workers, and emergency teams in just 18 days. By partnering with organizations like OBR, Blue Rhino ensures that communities have access to both the fuel and the food they need during challenging times.
You can help make a difference, too. Support flood recovery efforts by donating to OBR, volunteering at a deployment, or simply sharing this propane flood safety guide so more people know how to protect themselves and their homes.
Published: 2025.09.03