Extreme Weather Preparedness for Natural Gas

When severe weather or a natural disaster occurs, nothing is more important than the safety of you and your family. Being prepared means you’ll know what to do to protect yourself and your home. We’ve put together some extreme weather preparedness tips for natural gas safety.

Be prepared in severe weather.

• Have an emergency plan in place for extreme weather situations like snow storms, tornadoes and hurricanes. Practice your plan with your family and your neighbors.
• Locate your gas shutoff valve and learn how to turn off your gas. Gas shutoff includes your main line and individual appliances.
• Store any flammable liquids, such as gasoline, paint and cleaning products away from any natural gas appliance with a pilot light
• Connect appliances, including ranges, dryers, and space heaters to the gas supply with flexible connectors (if local codes allow). Contact a professional if you are unsure how to connect them correctly.
• Label gas valves, water valves, and electricity main switches. Teach responsible family members how and when to turn them off.
• Always remember your neighbors, especially the elderly.  They might always say they don’t need help, but always check on them anyway.
• If you suspect a gas leak call 911 immediately.
• If flooding occurs at a residence or business and the gas appliances are under water, do not try to operate the appliances.  Contact a professional to have it inspected.
• If a natural gas meter is damaged or a gas line is exposed, immediately leave the area and call 911.
• Know where your natural gas meter is located. Make sure it’s visible and free of trash and debris. Mechanical equipment used to clean up after a storm may damage the meter if it is hidden.

Some extreme weather preparedness tips shared from Atmos Energy and Spire Energy. Learn more about natural gas safety on the MRR blog.