Chester, VA – As the weather turns colder and the potential for hazards such as ice, snow and plummeting temperatures increases, Columbia Gas of Virginia is reminding customers to prepare now so that they can keep their homes and families safe and warm this winter.
“Your natural gas meter, regulator and outdoor piping can withstand harsh winter weather, but hard-packed snow, icicles and water dripping on outdoor equipment can create a safety risk,” said Columbia Gas of Virginia President and Chief Operating Officer Jennifer Montague. “We encourage our customers to know what to do to protect themselves and their families and to keep the heat on and appliances operational when you need them the most.”
Outside your home:
- Be sure to clear snow and ice from your intake and exhaust vents. Keeping those vents clear can help you avoid carbon monoxide buildup and operational issues with your appliances.
- Keep your natural gas meter clear and visible at all times so it is accessible for maintenance or in the event of an emergency; never let snow completely cover the meter and don’t use a shovel or hammer to hit the equipment to break up snow or ice buildup.
Inside your home:
- Space heaters should be used with caution. If using a space heater, place it on a hard, level surface and keep anything flammable, such as bedding, drapes, curtains, or rugs, at least three feet away.
- Make sure all appliances and heating equipment—such as a furnace, water heater or stove—are inspected and operating properly, and operate all pieces of equipment according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Never use a stove or oven as a source of heat in your home; ovens are designed to heat food and should only be operated with the door closed.
- Don’t burn charcoal or run a generator indoors or in an enclosed space.
- Clean your chimney and check for blockage at least once a year before using your fireplace.
What to do in case of a potential gas leak or carbon monoxide danger:
- If you smell the “rotten egg” odor of natural gas or think there may be a gas leak, stop what you are doing, leave the area immediately, and then call 911 and the Columbia Gas emergency line at 1-800-544-5606.
- If there are concerns of a carbon monoxide build-up, or if you are experiencing symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, go outside immediately and call 911.
- Carbon monoxide is an odorless, tasteless, non-corrosive gas created when fuels (such as gasoline, wood, natural gas, propane, or oil) burn incompletely.
- Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can include headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, irregular breathing, and feeling ill or tired while at home, but fine when away.
For more winter weather and home safety tips, visit www.columbiagasva.com/winter.
Bill payment assistance
We know there are times when it may be difficult for you to pay your bill. To find out more about the resources available to help you manage your energy bill and pay down past due balances, call us at 1-800-543-8911 or visit www.columbiagasva.com/assistance.
