PINE BELT, Miss. (WDAM) – Gas companies are urging customers to use caution this week as the cold weather passes through.
Spire Energy is reminding people that natural gas appliances, such as furnaces, stoves, or fireplaces, need good ventilation to operate safely.
They also recommend ensuring that your outdoor vents and gas meters are clear and not obstructed by ice.
The safest way to do so is to use a brush or broom and avoid using any hard objects or hot water.
Spire recommends keeping generators outside to avoid coming in contact with carbon monoxide.
“Never, ever run that generator in an attached garage, even with the doors. Always have it outside at a good distance – about 20 feet – away from the structure,” said Johnny Martin, Operations Manager at Spire. “You don’t want to get carbon monoxide inside the structure with you. When you’re fueling up and those kinds of things, be careful and let it cool down so it doesn’t cause a fire. Just be safe with that.”
If you smell natural gas or hear a hissing sound, Spire says you should leave immediately and call them or 9-1-1.
Martin says natural gas has a smell that’s similar to rotten eggs.
When leaving, avoid using or turning any electronic devices on or off.
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