Giving Thanks & Heating Up Safely This November
As the crisp November air settles in across our region, the team here at W&H Cooperative Oil Company is filled with gratitude. We appreciate you, our valued customers and members, more than ever. This season gives us the chance to reflect on a successful harvest and fuel season, and to remind everyone about propane safety as we move into colder months.
A Season of Gratitude
From corn drying to on-farm deliveries, it’s been a strong season thanks to your continued trust in W&H Coop.
As our November newsletter notes:
“We are thankful and grateful to have your business! Wishing you and your family a very happy Thanksgiving!”
We also want to welcome Desman Moore, our new Propane Delivery Driver in Dows, and thank Billy Stuck for his years of service. Changes like these remind us how strong our cooperative family is.
As we head into the holiday season, we’re honored to serve your homes, farms, and businesses. Your partnership keeps our communities thriving — and we couldn’t be more thankful.
🔥 Propane Safety Tips for a Safe, Warm Heating Season
As temperatures drop across the Midwest, propane keeps homes warm and farms running — from heating family living spaces to powering barns, grain dryers, and livestock facilities. Propane is reliable, efficient, and safe when used correctly.
Before winter weather hits, take a few minutes to review these propane safety tips from W&H Cooperative to protect your family, your operation, and your investment.
🏠 1. Schedule Your System Checkup
Start the heating season with confidence by having your propane system inspected by a qualified technician. Regular maintenance ensures efficiency, reduces downtime, and prevents dangerous leaks or equipment issues.
✅ Homeowners: Have your furnace, water heater, and appliances checked for proper operation.
🚜 Farmers & Hog Producers: Inspect all barn and building heaters, ventilation systems, and control units to keep animals warm and safe.
Pro Tip: Early inspections prevent emergency service calls during the coldest weeks of the year.
👃 2. Recognize the Smell of Propane
Propane is odorless, but an identifying odorant — similar to rotten eggs or skunk spray — is added so leaks are easy to detect.
If you smell gas:
- Extinguish flames and leave the area immediately.
- Do not use phones, light switches, or vehicles nearby.
- Shut off the main gas supply valve if safe to do so.
- Call your propane supplier or 911 from a safe distance.
Never re-enter the area until a qualified technician says it’s safe.
❄️ 3. Prepare for Winter Deliveries
Cold weather can make propane deliveries more challenging — but with a little planning, you can help ensure timely and safe service.
- Mark your tank location with a visible flag or stake.
- Clear snow and ice from driveways and around the tank area.
- Plan ahead: Schedule deliveries early and maintain at least 20% tank level to avoid runouts.
- Keep regulators and vents clear of snow and ice for safe operation.
Tip: Set a reminder to check your tank gauge weekly during extreme cold.
🧯 4. Store and Handle Propane Safely
- Store cylinders upright outdoors on a stable surface.
- Never bring tanks indoors — keep them out of garages, basements, or enclosed sheds.
- Secure cylinders during transport and avoid leaving them in hot or closed vehicles.
- Keep flammable materials away from tanks, valves, and regulators.
🧑🌾 5. Safety Reminders for Farms and Livestock Facilities
For many farms, propane keeps operations running — powering everything from heating systems and fans to emergency generators.
- Inspect barn and confinement building heaters for dust or corrosion.
- Test ventilation systems to ensure proper airflow.
- Maintain a backup heating plan in case of power loss.
- Train employees on gas leak response procedures and emergency contacts.
💡 6. Be Prepared, Stay Informed
A few simple safety checks go a long way:
- Test carbon monoxide (CO) detectors and replace batteries.
- Keep emergency phone numbers — including your propane supplier — handy.
- Make sure everyone on-site knows how to shut off the main propane valve safely.
🌾 Stay Warm, Stay Safe with W&H Cooperative
As we gather with family and friends this Thanksgiving, we want to express our heartfelt thanks to every member, customer, and employee who helped make this season successful.
From all of us at W&H Cooperative Oil Company — thank you for choosing us and trusting us to fuel your homes, farms, and businesses.
Stay safe, stay warm, and enjoy a wonderful Thanksgiving season!
📞 Call to Schedule or Learn More
Call us at 800-392-3816
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