The Challenges of Winter Deliveries

How to Keep Everyone Safe—No Matter What the Weather

Even a mild winter is no picnic in Northern Vermont. With an automatic delivery service, you never have to worry about running out of heating oil or propane. But conditions can get harsh and mountain roads can go from clear to closed in no time.

That’s why we’re proud to say our delivery drivers are the best on the road—and they’re out there in all kinds of weather to ensure you stay comfortable. That means dealing with hazardous conditions, especially when there’s snow and ice on the ground.

Maneuvering with a heavy hose while navigating slippery surfaces can be challenging… But there are ways you can make deliveries safer for our drivers—both before and after big storms—so they can get their work done efficiently and get to everyone quickly.

Keep these tips in mind to help us help you no matter what winter brings!

Winter Storm Preparedness Tips

1. Be sure the path to your fill pipe is free of debris or branches and clear a path about a foot wide after a large snowfall.
2. Is your tank underground? Marking its location with a pole topped with a bright-colored flag or ribbon makes it more visible over snowbanks and drifts.
3. When clearing your driveway after snow, keep in mind that our trucks need a 9- to 10-foot-wide path to maneuver safely—and we will NOT be able to deliver fuel if your driveway isn’t plowed. Marking the edges makes it easier to navigate, especially on steep driveways. Remember, just because you can get your car down your driveway doesn’t mean our 15-ton fuel truck can make it too.
4. Be sure vents are not blocked by snow, ice, or fallen leaves. Your heating system won’t work as effectively, plus, it also increases the risk of carbon monoxide buildup in your home.
5. After a storm, check for downed trees, branches, and power lines that may obstruct access to your equipment.

Protect Your Family

Wind, snow, and ice can damage lines and block vents, resulting in potentially dangerous situations for your home and family.

• Be aware of propane leaks. You’ll know it by the rotten-egg smell of propane gas. Small propane leaks can be created or made worse by storms. If you use propane in your home, you and your family should brush up on propane safety and know what to do if you suspect a leak.
• Keep areas around vents clear. Removing debris like leaves and maintaining a wide space around them makes clearing snow and ice easier after storms.
• Test your carbon monoxide detectors. With windows shut tight and the heat on, winter is the most dangerous time when it comes to carbon monoxide poisoning. Follow manufacturer’s recommendations and change batteries if needed.
• Charge your devices. When bad weather is in the forecast, make sure your phones, laptops, and tablets are fully charged—especially if you live in an area prone to outages. If you have portable chargers, charge those as well.

Corse Fuels has been delivering warmth for generations. Let us know if you have questions, need help clearing your drive, or want to set up automatic delivery, contact us today.