National Grid urges customers to be prepared for a blizzard which is forecasted to bear down on our region on Tuesday. Forecasts are calling for substantial snow accumulations and high winds across New York City and Long Island. Flooding along coastal areas is also a concern and can cause interruptions in natural gas service.

Field crews and support personnel are prepared in the event the weather causes damage to our region’s natural gas network, and are ready to address any service issues that may arise from the storm. While storm preparations are important, so too is the safety of our customers.

Ice and Snow Buildup Poses Risk to Gas Equipment
The buildup of ice and snow around or over natural gas meters, regulators and pipes can pose a serious safety risk as well. Ice and snow falling from a roof can damage gas meters or service connections to customers’ homes or businesses, resulting in potential gas leaks. Anyone detecting the odor of natural gas should call National Grid. If the odor is present inside your building, leave the premises immediately and call from outside or a neighboring building.

Snow removal equipment operators also should be aware of the presence of natural gas equipment and avoid coming in contact with meters, hitting outside gas risers, or piling snow around vents mounted on the outside of buildings.

Carbon Monoxide Safety Tips

• The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are similar to those of the flu. Depending upon the amount of carbon monoxide in the air and length of exposure, symptoms may include headaches, weakness, confusion, chest tightness, skin redness, dizziness, nausea, sleepiness, fluttering of the heart or loss of muscle control.
• If you suspect carbon monoxide is present in your home, go outside immediately and breathe deeply; then call 911. If symptoms are severe, get medical attention right away.

Smell Gas Act Fast

• Get Out – All occupants should leave the house immediately. Do not use the telephone or light switches for any reason.
• Call – After leaving the house and reaching a safe environment, call 911 or the National Grid 24-hour gas emergency number for Brooklyn, Queens and Staten Island at 718-643-4050, on Long Island and the Rockaway Peninsula call 1-800-490-0045 or call 911.
• Stay Out – Do not return to your home until National Grid tells you it is safe.

(YWN Desk – NYC)