Rodents Contribute to RV Explosion From Propane Gas Leak

Location: Abbotsford

Regulated industry sector: Gas

Incident overview

In Abbotsford, a propane gas explosion destroyed a fifth-wheel RV, ripping off its roof and walls, and causing severe interior fire damage. Our investigation found that rodents chewed through a flexible propane hose inside the RV, allowing propane to build up unnoticed for days. The ignition of the propane caused the explosion, which left the RV owner with severe burns necessitating multiple long-term hospital admissions.

Their dog was also treated for burns, and the vehicle suffered substantial damage. The RV's propane gas alarm, initially installed by the manufacturer, was either missing or not functioning. Had it been operational, it could have detected the leak and potentially prevented the explosion.