HB FIRE DEPARTMENT BULLETIN

PROPANE CYLINDERS
In an effort to enhance safety for millions of users of gas grills, turkey fryers, camp stoves, RVs and patio heaters, the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) safety codes now require Overfill Protection Devices (OPDs) in propane cylinders before they can be filled. What this means is you cannot get your old tank filled if it doesn't have this new valve. The OPD is a special valve that has a float inside the tank that will close the valve when the tank is 80% full. It won't measure how much propane is in the tank, but it is supposed to keep it from being overfilled. The new propane cylinders have a triangle shaped valve knob while the older models have a five-prong, circular knob. Some manufacturers will exchange their old cylinders or retrofit them. Check with your local home improvement center for this service.
non-compliant propane tank
Valves with round or star shaped handwheels are obsolete.
As of April 1, 2002, all new propane cylinders must be equipped with an Overfill Prevention Device (OPD). Information is being posted on the Internet and being distributed from other sources informing people that they can take their old tanks to fire stations.
THE HUNTINGTON BEACH FIRE DEPARTMENT
IS NOT ACCEPTING OLD CYLINERS
However, the Household Hazardous Waste Collection Center will accept all regular BBQ propane style tanks. Citizens needing to dispose of old propane cylinders should contact the Household Hazardous Waste Collection Center located at Rainbow Disposal, Gate #6, 17121 Nichols Street in Huntington Beach. The Collection Center is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Their phone number is 714-834-6752. There are no restrictions to the number or size of tanks, and there is no charge. Cylinders can be partially full, however, a maximum of 15 gallons or 125 pounds may be transported at one time. These tanks are then either retro-fitted or sent for scrap metal, depending on their condition. Cylinders are not to be disposed of through the regular trash pickup.