National Grid says stay safe in storm aftermath

Posted

Now that the storm has passed, National Grid advises their customers to stay cautious.

General Safety tips

  • The build up of ice and snow around or over gas meters and vents for natural gas appliances could pose a serious safety risk. Ice and snow falling from a roof can damage gas meters or service connections to customers’ homes or businesses, resulting in a gas leak.
  • Ice and snow blocking vents could cause carbon monoxide (CO) to back up into a building and result in carbon monoxide poisoning for those inside.
  • To avoid these dangers, National Grid advises natural gas customers to closely inspect areas around and over gas meters, service hook-ups and vents for ice and snow that could damage equipment or prevent CO from properly venting.
  • NEVER use your gas range to heat your apartment, or house. Your range's oven and top burners are designed to cook your food, NOT to heat your home. Prolonged use can reduce oxygen levels in the home and contribute to unusually excessive levels of carbon monoxide.

Carbon Monoxide

  • The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are similar to those of the flu. Depending upon the amount of carbon monoxide in the air and length of exposure, symptoms may include headaches, weakness, confusion, chest tightness, skin redness, dizziness, nausea, sleepiness, fluttering of the heart or loss of muscle control.
  • If you suspect carbon monoxide is present in your home, go outside immediately and breathe deeply; then call 911. If symptoms are severe, get medical attention right away.

Take action if you detect a Gas Leak
National Grid advises that you take immediate action anytime you suspect a natural gas leak:

  • Get Out - All occupants should leave the house immediately. Do not use the telephone or light switches for any reason.
  • Call - After leaving the house and reaching a safe environment, call the National Grid 24-hour gas emergency number at 1-800-490-0045 or 911.
  • Stay Out - Do not return to your home until National Grid tells you it is safe.

If you experience flooding in your home and your appliances have been in contact with water, please contact a plumbing or heating contractor to make sure the appliance is safe to operate.

Check on elderly family members, neighbors and others who may need assistance during an outage period.