Columbia Gas of Virginia shares winter storm, natural gas safety tips as weekend snow storm approaches

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Columbia Gas of Virginia is urging customers to take steps to stay safe and warm by following essential natural gas safety tips ahead of this weekend's winter storm.

Officials shared how Virginians should follow natural gas safety guidelines ahead of the snow beginning on Saturday, Jan. 24, in a press release on Wednesday, Jan. 21.

Our StormTracker8 team is forecasting that this will become sleet and freezing rain in the early morning hours of Sunday, Jan. 25. This freezing rain will quickly freeze into ice.

RELATED: Winter storm coming to Central Virginia, widespread power outages expected

"Safety is always our top priority when temperatures drop," said Columbia Gas of Virginia President and COO Jennifer Montague. "By following natural gas safety guidelines, our customers can protect their homes and families. And they can count on us—our crews and call center will be here to provide support to customers throughout the winter weather."

Officials are urging Virginians to follow a variety of steps -- outside your home, inside your home and what to do in case a potential gas leak or carbon monoxide becomes dangerous.

Outside your home:

• Be sure to clear snow and ice from your intake and exhaust vents. Keeping those vents clear can help you avoid carbon monoxide buildup and operational issues with your appliances.
• Keep your natural gas meter 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 buildup.

RELATED: RIC warns of flight delays, cancellations as winter storm approaches Richmond

Inside your home:

• Space heaters should be used with caution. If using a space heater, place it on a hard, level surface and keep anything flammable, such as bedding, drapes, curtains or rugs at least three feet away.
• Ensure all appliances and heating equipment -- such as a furnace, water heater or stove -- are inspected and operating properly and 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 your chimney and check for blockage at least once a year before using your fireplace.

What to do in case of a potential gas leak or carbon monoxide danger:

• If you smell the “rotten egg” odor of natural gas or think there may be a gas leak, stop what you are doing, leave the area immediately, and then call 911 and the Columbia Gas emergency line at 800-544-5606.
  • If there are concerns of carbon monoxide build-up, or if you are experiencing symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, go outside immediately and call 911.
  • Carbon monoxide is an odorless, tasteless, non-corrosive gas created when fuels (such as gasoline, wood, natural gas, propane or oil) burn incompletely.
  • Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can include headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, irregular breathing and feeling ill or tired while at home, but fine when away.
  • For more winter weather and home safety tips, visit www.columbiagasva.com/winter.

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