COLUMBUS, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—As the weather turns colder and the potential increases for hazards such as ice, snow and plummeting temperatures, Columbia Gas of Ohio is reminding customers to prepare now so they can help keep their families safe and warm this winter.
Outside your home:
- 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.
Inside your home:
- 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 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:
- 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, then call 911 and Columbia Gas at 1-800-344-4077.
For more safety tips, visit columbiagasohio.com/safety/home-safety.
Bill payment assistance
We know there are times when it may be difficult for you to pay your bill. To find out more about the resources available to help you manage your energy bill and pay down past due balances, call us at 1-800-344-4077 or visit columbiagasohio.com/bills-and-payments/financial-support