Be Safe and Avoid Hazards During Winter Conditions

As the residents in Massachusetts experience the first winter storm of 2014, Columbia Gas of Massachusetts is reminding customers of important safety tips during snowy and icy conditions.

To be safe and avoid hazards, customers should:

  • Keep natural gas meters clear of snow and ice to ensure they are visible and accessible at all times for maintenance by Columbia Gas.
  • Keeping natural gas meters clear also ensures proper venting.
  • Remove snow from the meter with hands or a broom.  Never use a shovel, or kick or hit the meter to break away snow or ice.  If the meter is encased in ice, contact Columbia Gas for assistance at 1-800-677-5052.  
  • Keep fresh air and exhaust vents for natural gas appliances free of snow, ice and debris to prevent equipment malfunction.
  • Use caution when removing snow from flat rooftops, especially in commercial and industrial buildings, as there may be heating and cooling equipment and electric or fuel lines that may not be visible under the snow.
  • Make sure all appliances and heating equipment are inspected and operating properly.
  • Never use stoves, ovens or outdoor grills as a source of heat.
  • Check your carbon monoxide detectors and smoke detectors to ensure they operate properly.
  • As always, if customers smell natural gas at any time, they should leave the area and call Columbia Gas at 1-800-525-8222 or 911.

"The safety and comfort of customers is a high priority.  Especially during these days of extreme cold, we ask that everyone check on your families and neighbors, particularly those that are elderly or need special attention," said Steve Bryant, President of Columbia Gas of Massachusetts.

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