In response to numerous calls of gas leaks due to the weight of snow damaging piping connected to natural gas meters, ENSTAR is encouraging customers to clear snow drifts and to clear snow build-up from around natural gas meters.
ENSTAR is reporting that the weight of snow against house piping at the meter is pulling on gas lines feeding appliances inside homes and businesses and causing natural gas to leak. Following heavy snow, winds, and fluctuating temperatures, ENSTAR has been answering calls and ENSTAR personnel and first responders are battling blocked access to meters do to uncleared snow at the building meter.
ENSTAR stated that it is critical that customers inspect their natural gas meters to ensure they are not blocked by snow and that access to the meter is clear for emergency personnel.
ENSTAR recommends:
1. When removing snow from driveways, parking lots, and roofs, ensure the snow pile is AWAY from the meter.
2. Make a path through the snow to your meter so that in case of a fire or leak, ENSTAR crews can have immediate access to stop the flow of gas.
3. Use caution when removing ice and snow from a meter. Use tools such as a broom or your hand, not a shovel when coming into contact with the actual meter. It may be necessary to call a contractor to assist with snow removal.
If you suspect a natural gas leak or other natural gas-related emergency, call ENSTAR emergency dispatch 24/7 at 1-844-SMELL-GAS (1-844-763-5542).
