Columbia Gas of Ohio’s safety tips for winter weather chill, inside and outside
As temperatures drop, Columbia Gas of Ohio released tips for winter weather safety inside and outside the home as ice and snow builds up.
Outdoor safety tips
- Always keep snow and ice cleared from intake and exhaust vents. Keeping those vents clear can help you avoid carbon monoxide buildup and operational issues with your appliances.
- Columbia Gas of Ohio wants to remind homeowners to keep their natural gas meters 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.
Indoor safety tips
- Use space heaters with caution. Place them on hard, level surfaces and keep anything flammable – bedding, curtains, rugs, etc. – at least three feet away.
- Ensure heating appliances and equipment are inspected and operating properly. 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 chimneys and check for blockage at least once a year before using any fireplaces.
Natural gas leaks
Columbia Gas of Ohio wants to remind homeowners or renters that smelling a “rotten egg” odor is dangerous.
That’s the number one sign of a natural gas leak. If you start to smell rotten eggs, Columbia Gas of Ohio says to stop what you are doing and leave the area immediately.
Then call 911 and Columbia Gas at 1-800-344-4077.