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Tom Callan and Nicole Gonzales reportingThe potential dangers of propane come into sharp focus after a Sanpete couple is badly injured in an explosion.
The Sanpete County Sheriff's Office has finished its investigation into what caused the huge explosion that seriously injured a couple. They say the propane leak that caused the explosion could have been going on for as long as two days.
Officers say they believe snow or ice fell from the roof, hitting and damaging an exposed propane line that went from the tank to the home. The leaking propane built up beneath the home and was ignited by either a furnace or a water heater.
Even police were in disbelief at the size of this explosion. Sgt. Greg Peterson of the Sanpete County Sheriff's Office said, "I was pretty amazed how far the walls were blown out, and then you see a lot of glass blown a ways from the house. Pretty impressive, with the amount of power the explosion has."
A neighbor says the Jensens had complained about sewer-like smells, but they didn't have municipal utility service because of the remote location.
Although they're usually safe, some propane tanks can be dangerous if not properly taken care of. The Salt Lake City Fire Department says each day four fires are caused by propane nationwide, totaling $140,000 in damages.
Fire officials say because propane is heavier than air it will sink low. That's why, in this Sanpete explosion, the propane stayed in the crawl space of the home before it lit on fire.
Many propane tanks have instructions you should follow when installing. First of all, if you take your tank to get filled at one of these propane sites never leave it in a hot car or trunk. The heat will cause the pressure to increase, which could allow the gas to escape.
Once installed, always check the pipes to make sure there are no cracks, holes or leaks. If it's supposed to be underground be sure it stays that way. Lastly, keep the tanks as far away as possible from your home.
If those tips don't work and you smell something funny, you need to get out. "Even if you think you're not smelling something that you recognize, always wise to leave the house, call 911, have us come check it out. We have all kinds of equipment that detects," explained Capt. Karleen Montanez, of the Salt Lake City Fire Department.
These types of explosions aren't uncommon in Utah, where many residents have cabins or rural homes that require these tanks. A Garfield County cabin was flattened by an explosion caused by leaking propane in 2005, and just last October, an RV was destroyed by exploding propane canisters.
The good news is that officials say the couple injured in yesterday's blast is going to make it out fine. Right now, they're in serious condition at University Hospital.
