South Burlington. Vt. – The Green Mountains are about to experience a one-two punch of ice and snow starting tonight and Vermont Gas wants to make sure safety is top of mind for whatever Mother Nature throws at us.
Here are some important reminders to consider this weekend:
- Keep gas meters free from snow and ice – use a broom, not a shovel, to clear snow and ice from your meter assembly and vents
- Keep exterior sidewall vents clear – if a vent becomes buried in snow or blocked otherwise, equipment may shut down or draw exhaust fumes into a home
- Check to make sure your heating system’s emergency switch is turned on – sometimes they can be inadvertently turned off
- Try keeping your thermostat steady at a comfortable temperature during the extreme cold – 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.)
- Test carbon monoxide alarms – carbon monoxide (CO) is colorless, odorless and tasteless. Exposure to even small quantities of CO can cause flu-like symptoms. Higher levels are live threatening. 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, seek fresh air and remain outside.
- Report all gas leaks – natural gas and propane have an odor similar to that of rotten eggs. If you suspect a gas leak, leave the area, call 911 and contact your fuel supplier.
For more safety information, please 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