As Severe Storms Awareness Week in Maryland kicks off on April 7 and runs to April 13, Columbia Gas is reminding customers of the steps they can take to prepare for potential severe weather and practice natural gas safety.
“Spring is here, and the time to get ready for storms is now,” said Mark Kempic, Columbia Gas of Maryland President and Chief Operating Officer. “Severe Storms Awareness Week provides a valuable opportunity for our customers to learn about how they can keep themselves and their families safe while enjoying the many benefits that natural gas offers.”
Here’s what you need to know for severe weather:
- Have an emergency plan and practice it with your family.
- Label gas valves, water valves and electricity main switches. Teach responsible family members how and when to turn them off.
- Store any flammable liquids, such as gasoline, paint and cleaning products away from any natural gas appliance with a pilot light.
- If your appliances have been impacted by severe weather, do not attempt to place natural gas appliances back in service yourself. A qualified professional should check, clean, repair and test all gas appliances and pipes.
- If you smell the sulfur-like “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 1-888-460-4332.
Flooding safety tips:
- In the event of a flood, turn off electrical power to each appliance and leave it off.
- If the natural gas is shut off at the meter, call Columbia Gas of Maryland to turn it back on for you.
- If water levels were high enough to cover the gas meter, call us to check your meter and regulator before using your gas appliances. Floodwaters may have shifted your home or caused other stresses, possibly resulting in a natural gas leak.
- For more severe weather and flooding safety tips, visit www.columbiagasmd.com/safety/weather-safety.
Other safety tips:
- Call 811 before you dig: Whether your outdoor project is big or small, contact 811 at least three business days before you dig. Your local utilities will mark their lines so you can dig safely. It’s easy, it’s free for homeowners, and it’s the law. Visit MissUtility.net or ColumbiaGasMD.com/811 for more information about 811 and safe digging practices.
- Keep your meter clear: Don’t let debris build up on or around your natural gas meter. Take time to gently clear the meter with a broom, and never hang or place any objects on or around your natural gas meter or piping.
- Avoiding encroachments: Encroachments within pipeline easements can be a safety hazard. It is important that property owners understand the importance of keeping these areas clear. Nothing should be placed within the limits of the easement area. More information can be found at www.columbiagasmd.com/encroachments.
For more home safety tips, visit www.columbiagasmd.com/knowyourhome.
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 our Energy Assistance Hotline at 1-800-272-2714 or visit www.columbiagasmd.com/assistance.
