Energy is a very powerful resource. And although we often take it for granted, it can also sometimes be dangerous. We’ve compiled a series of safety tips that could help protect you and your family. Click on the links below to learn more.

- Natural Gas Safety
- Carbon Monoxide Safety Tips
- Electric Power Line Safety
 

Natural Gas Safety
There’s something you should know about nature’s best energy resource... Since natural gas has no odor, we’ve added a smell to the gas you receive at your home or business.

What you smell is a harmless chemical called mercaptan. We’ve added it to help you and your entire family identify natural gas... and that’s good.

Like all energy supplies, natural gas should be used wisely and safely. If you smell natural gas, in the unlikely event of a gas leak:

- Do not turn on or off any lights or appliances
- Do not use the telephone in your home
- Do not light any matches
- Be sure to put out any cigarettes or open flames such as candles

Leave the building and call us at 536-9335 from a nearby phone!

(Information courtesy of the Northeast Gas Association and HG&E)

Click here to download a flyer that includes safety information about natural gas.
(opens in a new window and requires Adobe Acrobat to view)

Carbon Monoxide (CO) Safety Tips
Whether you heat your home with oil, natural gas, propane, coal or wood, your heating system can produce carbon monoxide (CO) if it is not working properly, or if it is inadequately vented.

CO is also produced from internal combustion devices such as cars and small gasoline engines. Carbon monoxide is odorless, colorless and tasteless, but very toxic. Signs indicating the presence of carbon monoxide in the home include stuffy, stale or smelly air, very high humidity or soot coming from a fireplace or heating system.

What are the symptoms of CO poisoning?
The symptoms of CO poisoning are often confused with those of the flu, and the highest incidence of poisoning occurs during the flu season.

Symptoms include headaches, dizziness, nausea, unclear thinking, shortness of breath, weakness, vision problems and loss of muscle control. High concentrations of carbon monoxide can lead to unconsciousness, brain damage or death. However, a victim may not experience ANY of these symptoms, or only one or a few symptoms. You should suspect the presence of carbon monoxide if symptoms tend to disappear when you leave home.

What should you do if you suspect the presence of CO in your home?
- open the windows and doors
- call your fuel supplier, licensed heating contractor, or HG&E (for natural gas customers) immediately for an emergency inspection
- if carbon monoxide is detected, seek medical attention immediately

How can you reduce the risk of CO poisoning in the home?
- “Tune up” your heating system using a licensed heating contractor, HG&E (for natural gas customers), or your fuel supplier, preferably before the heating season begins.
- Check your chimney or vent pipes for blockage. If a blockage exists, contact a professional chimney sweep immediately.
- Make sure your home is adequately ventilated, particularly if you have insulated your home, had major renovations done, or have enclosed your heating system.
- Clear snow and ice from around appliances and equipment vents.

(Information courtesy of the Northeast Gas Association and HG&E)
 

Electric Power Line Safety
If you see downed powerlines, call HG&E immediately at 536-9335.

Never touch any fallen wire, and never use an object such as a board or limb in an attempt to move a downed line. Even wooden objects can conduct electricity if only slightly wet, causing the risk of electric shock or electrocution. Even if you don’t see sparks, consider every wire on the ground to be energized and dangerous.

Never touch a person who is contact with power lines or other objects that are touching power lines, as you may become electrocuted yourself. Instead dial, 911 or summon appropriate emergency held immediately