About Us > Press Room > 2013 > As the winter storm approaches, Elizabethtown Gas advises customers on outdoor natural gas meter and

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As the winter storm approaches, Elizabethtown Gas advises customers on outdoor natural gas meter and appliance venting safety tips

UNION, NJ – In anticipation of Winter Storm Nemo, which could bring heavy snow and high winds into its service territory Friday afternoon and continue through Saturday, Elizabethtown Gas wants to remind customers of important outdoor natural gas meter and appliance venting safety tips to ensure public safety and the continuity of service. 

“As our state braces itself for what could be the worst snowstorm in two years, we want our customers to know that their natural gas service should remain fully functional during the storm,” said Brian MacLean, vice president of operations for Elizabethtown Gas. “Our distribution system, as well as outdoor gas meters, are reliable and are designed to withstand severe conditions like what we’re expecting.” 

MacLean added: “We will continue to monitor the storm’s progress, and we have additional resources ready to respond to emergencies should they arise.” 

Below are recommended guidelines associated with natural gas during severe winter weather:

• Make sure your outdoor natural gas meter is visible and accessible at all times. To ensure the safe, proper operation of natural gas appliances, such as a furnace and water heater, and to prevent a potentially hazardous buildup of carbon monoxide within your home, make sure that your outdoor gas vents are not covered by snow or ice.
• Exercise caution removing snow or ice from your natural gas meter assembly. Use your hands or a broom - not a shovel - to brush away snow from your meter and regulator. Never kick or hit your gas meter or its piping with a hammer or any hard object to break away built-up snow or ice.
• Call Elizabethtown Gas for natural gas emergencies. Heavy snow and ice may weigh down power lines and tree limbs, causing them to fall. If a natural gas meter is damaged or gas line is exposed, immediately leave the area and call the Elizabethtown Gas 24-hour emergency response line, at 1-800-492-4009 from a safe location.

For additional severe winter weather information, visit www.elizabethtowngas.com.