South Burlington. Vt. – Vermont is about to experience round two of a bitter cold snap that is affecting much of the northeast. Sub-zero temperatures and strong winds are in the future again this weekend and the National Weather Service has issued a winter weather advisory for parts of Vermont where wind chills are expected between 20 and 40 below zero. With weather like this forecasted, it’s important that Vermonters take steps to stay safe and warm.
“Vermont Gas technicians are prepared to work day and night to ensure our customers stay warm,” said Don Rendall, Vermont Gas President and CEO. “Vermonters can be prepared by making sure heating systems are operating properly and vents are free from ice and snow before the cold snap hits.”
Vermont Gas has 24/7 emergency services for customers experiencing heating issues. The Company recommends some simple tips to try before calling:
- Check to make sure your heating system’s emergency switch is turned on – sometimes they can accidentally be turned off.
- Check outside vents to ensure they are not blocked by snow or have ice build-up inside the opening.
- If your system is blowing cold air, try turning the emergency switch off for 30 seconds and then turn it back on again.
- Make sure your thermostat is on and batteries are working properly.
- Try keeping your thermostat steady at a comfortable temperature by temporarily disabling the setback feature on your thermostat. Your furnace will not work as hard to get up to temperature and it will improve the comfort of your home. (Our energy experts recommend enabling the setback feature once the cold snap has passed.)
- Be sure carbon monoxide alarms are working properly. Carbon monoxide (CO) is colorless, odorless and tasteless. Exposure to even small quantities of CO can cause flu-like symptoms. Higher levels can be dangerous. Test and replace CO detectors as needed. Properly maintain and vent your appliances. Never use a gas stove to heat your home and do not use a generator indoors or near the home. If you suspect CO poisoning, call 911 or local fire department, seek fresh air and remain outside.
Vermont Gas also urges Vermonters to take precautions when they’re out in the cold weather, check on elderly and disabled neighbors and keep your pets indoors as much as possible.
“Last week, our energy experts responded to a record number of low heat and no heat calls during the first blast of bitter air this winter and we want to be sure our neighbors are ready for even colder weather ahead,” said John St. Hilaire, Vice President of Operations at Vermont Gas. “Our teams are now focused on this weekend’s frigid forecast and ensuring that our customers have what they need to get through the weekend.”
If you experience an emergency, call 911 first. For emergency heating service, call 802-863-4511. For more safety tips visit VermontGas.com.
About VGS
VGS is a leader in energy efficiency and innovation, offering a clean, safe, affordable choice for over 54,000 homes, businesses, and institutions in Franklin, Chittenden and Addison counties. The company plays an important role in Vermont’s clean energy future by displacing higher-emitting fuels, offering renewable natural gas service, and delivering award-winning energy efficiency programs. VGS is leading the country in the development of local renewable energy generation and has targeted a 30% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and becoming Net Zero by 2050. For more information about Vermont Gas visit www.vgsvt.com
Media Contact
Dylan Giambatista
(802) 391-6475
dgiambatista@vermontgas.com