What happens if you breathe in a propane leak?

Author: Alexie Bednar  |  Last update: Monday, September 29, 2025

Breathing of high concentrations may cause dizziness, light-headedness, headache, nausea, and loss of coordination. Continued inhalation may result in unconsciousness. Asphyxiation may bring about unconsciousness without warning and so rapidly that the victim may be unable to protect themself.

Can the smell of propane harm you?

Propane vapor is not toxic, but it is an asphyxiating gas. That means propane will displace the oxygen in your lungs, making it difficult or impossible to breathe if exposed to high concentrations. If you suspect you have inhaled a significant amount of propane, call 911.

How dangerous is a propane gas leak?

Inhalation: Breathing in high levels of propane can lead to asphyxiation – a condition of severe lack of oxygen that can result in unconsciousness or death. Long-term health effects: Prolonged exposure to low levels of propane can cause chronic respiratory problems and compromised lung function.

How long does it take to get sick from propane?

No symptoms were noted following a 10-min exposure to propane at 10,000 ppm, but “distinct vertigo” was reported after 2 min of exposure at 100,000 ppm.

Can you get carbon monoxide poisoning from breathing in propane?

Inhaling carbon monoxide can be very dangerous for health and may even cause death. Carbon monoxide is released when appliances and vehicles burn combustibles such as propane, wood and fuel oil. Only a carbon monoxide alarm can detect the gas and warn you. When the alarm goes off, knowing what to do is important.

What happens when you inhale propane gas?

What to do if you breathe in propane?

Seek medical help right away. If the person breathed in the poison, immediately move them to fresh air. If the person does not improve rapidly after moving to fresh air, call the local emergency number (such as 911). If the chemical is on the skin or in the eyes, flush with lots of water for at least 15 minutes.

Will a propane leak set off a carbon monoxide detector?

A carbon monoxide detector can't sense a leak in a propane tank, so homeowners could still be at risk because their detectors won't alert them. Many homeowners look for a distinct odor, similar to the scent of rotten eggs, to determine when a propane leak is taking place.

What are two warning signs of carbon monoxide poisoning?

The most common symptoms of CO poisoning are headache, dizziness, weakness, upset stomach, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. CO symptoms are often described as “flu-like.” If you breathe in a lot of CO, it can make you pass out or kill you.

What is the most severe hazard associated with propane products?

Specific Hazards / Products of Combustion

Propane is an explosion hazard and causes a dangerous fire when vapors are ignited from heat, spark, open flame or other source of ignition. Propane is heavier than air and may travel long distances to a point of ignition and flash back. Container may explode in heat or fire.

Is a propane leak an emergency?

REPORT THE LEAK Call from a neighbor's home or other nearby building away from the gas leak – and call us right away. If you can't reach us, call 911 or your local fire department. DO NOT RETURN TO THE BUILDING OR AREA Wait until a professional determines that it is safe to go return inside or to the area.

What to do after gas leak exposure?

Go to a phone that is not near the smell and call your local gas company right away. (If the smell is strong or you are unsure, leave the building and then call.) They will come and make the area safe at no charge to you.

Can a small propane leak cause an explosion?

With any gas leak, there is always the concern that the slightest ignition could start a fire or explosion. Once a gas leak has been confirmed, you'll need to put out any open flames. Do NOT turn on light switches, household appliances, or even use your phone. The slightest spark could cause an explosion.

How do you treat gas inhalation?

Treatment of Irritant Gas Inhalation Injury

Treatment depends on the nature and severity of the exposure. Removal from exposure and supportive respiratory care is a cornerstone of treatment. People should initially be moved into fresh air and given supplemental oxygen.

Are propane fumes safe indoors?

Carbon Monoxide Risks

Carbon monoxide poisoning is one of the most serious risks associated with using a propane heater indoors. When propane burns, it produces carbon monoxide as a byproduct. In a well-ventilated space, this gas is quickly dispersed and poses no threat.

How long does it take for propane gas to dissipate?

Typically, you'll need to allow your home to air out for fifteen minutes to a few hours, but the exact timeframe depends on the severity of the leak and wind conditions in your area.

How to detect carbon monoxide without a detector?

Signs of carbon monoxide:
  1. Stuffy or stale air.
  2. A pilot light keeps going out.
  3. More condensation than usual on your windows.
  4. Soot build up around a fireplace, chimney, or other fuel-burning equipment.
  5. Fuel-burning equipment has a back-draft (flame flares up when a window or door opens and adds air).

Can you recover from carbon monoxide poisoning on your own?

If you have a mild case of CO poisoning, you'll feel better just by going outside and breathing fresh air. More severe cases may require treatment with pure oxygen or hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT).

Can I call the fire department to check for carbon monoxide?

Yes, the fire department can check for carbon monoxide. If you suspect the presence of carbon monoxide in your home or building, it's essential to act quickly. Evacuate the area, ensure everyone's safety, and call your local emergency services or fire department.

What happens if you breathe in propane leak?

Inhalation of high concentrations may cause central nervous system depression such as dizziness, drowsiness, headache, and similar narcotic symptoms, but no long-term effects. Numbness, a "chilly" feeling, and vomiting have been reported from accidental exposures to high concentrations.

How long does it take for a gas leak to harm you?

Severe leaks can cause this problem in just five minutes. The EPA states that exposure to concentrations of nine ppm or more for eight hours is enough to produce harmful health effects for at-risk individuals. Exit the property and call 911 if you suspect your home has a gas leak.

Will a carbon monoxide detector detect propane?

You should have CO detectors on every level of your home, and outside all sleeping areas. But most carbon monoxide detectors do not detect propane in your home. So, you need propane detectors as well. Contact us to learn more about propane detectors.

What are the symptoms of propane gas exposure as in a leak?

Propane is highly flammable, and a leak can lead to fires or explosions if not handled promptly. Additionally, inhaling propane can cause health issues such as dizziness, headaches, and in severe cases, asphyxiation.

Can you smell a propane leak?

Propane gas has no odor. Propane companies add a harmless chemical called mercaptan to give it its distinctive “rotten egg” smell.

What are the three ways to detect a propane leak?

What Are the Signs of a Propane Gas Leak?
  • You Smell Rotton Eggs or Sulfur. ...
  • Your Bill Is Higher Than Usual. ...
  • You Notice Dead Plants Near Your Propane Tank. ...
  • There's Condensation, Bubbles, or Frost Near the Tank. ...
  • A Loud Hissing Noise. ...
  • Check Your Gas Stove's Pilot Light. ...
  • What To Do in Case of a Propane Gas Leak.

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