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Natural Gas Safety |
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Even though natural gas is a safe and efficient source of energy in your home, there are certain safety issues you should be aware of. Please review this web page for tips on natural gas safety. |
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What if you smell gas? |
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If you or any member of your family smells gas, LEAVE THE PREMISES IMMEDIATELY. Even though Natural Gas has a very limited range of flammability, you are not equipped to determine whether there has been a dangerous build-up. |
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In its most pure state, Natural Gas has no odor. That's why we add a chemical with a very distinctive odor. In fact, it smells pretty bad (like rotten eggs). Make sure that everyone in your family is aware of this.
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For more information:
Indiana Customers: http://www.safegasindiana.org
Ohio Customers: http://www.safegasohio.org
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Call Before You Dig |
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Planning a home improvement job? Planting a tree? Installing a fence or deck? WAIT!
Here's what you need to know first:
Whether you are planning to do it yourself or hire a professional, smart digging means calling 811 before each job. Simply call 811 at least two full working days in advance to have your utility lines marked at no cost. It's a simple call that can avoid serious accidents.
If you've hit a pipeline or otherwise suspect a leak, residents are reminded of the following:
- Leave the area of the gas leak immediately.
- Call Vectren at 1-800-227-1376 from somewhere other than the location of the gas leak.
- Remain in a safe area until emergency personnel arrive and do not re-enter the premises.
For more information:
Indiana customers:
Indiana 811
http://www.indiana811.org/
Ohio customers:
Ohio Utilities Protection Service (OUPS)
http://www.oups.org/
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Furnace Clean & Check |
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Properly functioning Natural Gas appliances produce no harmful exhaust. One that is dirty, damaged or has an inadequate supply of air for combustion has the potential to create harmful gases like carbon monoxide. This can cause serious health problems and even be fatal. Symptoms from exposure are often the same as those from the flu. They can include headaches, nausea, coughing, dizziness, weakness or similar symptoms. See Carbon Monoxide Safety. |
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Most Natural Gas Heating Dealers have a program that assures a thorough furnace check. These include: |
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check vent pipes for cracks, leaks and sufficient venting |
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inspect internal components for excessive wear or damage and replace or repair as necessary |
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make proper internal adjustments for maximum efficiency |
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clean internal and external areas including the burner chamber, heat exchanger, vents, registers and thermostat |
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check venting for Natural Gas water heater |
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Contact your heating and water heating professional for more information. |
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Carbon Monoxide Safety |
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Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a toxic gas produced by the incomplete burning of different fuels including gasoline, kerosene, wood, coal, propane, natural gas and fuel oil. High concentrations of CO can cause illness and excessive levels can be fatal. |
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If you suspect that someone may be experiencing CO poisoning in your home, call 911 or your local Fire Department immediately! |
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Know the symptoms |
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Breathing CO may include the following flu-like symptoms: |
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headaches |
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nausea |
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fatigue |
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dizziness |
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drowsiness |
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burning eyes |
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irregular breathing |
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confusion |
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disorientation |
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unconsciousness |
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Preventing CO in your home |
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A few simple tips can help keep you and your family safe. |
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Make sure all appliances are properly installed and maintained. |
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Have a heating professional clean and check your heating and venting every year. |
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Between inspections, look for signs of water collecting near a burner or vent. Also check vents, flue pipes and chimneys for corrosion or blockage. |
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Never run a vehicle or fuel-burning equipment in an enclosed place. |
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CO detectors can add an extra measure of safety and can be purchased at most discount and hardware stores. |
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Space Heater Safety |
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To help prevent Carbon Monoxide poisoning and fires from the use of space heaters, adhere to the following tips. |
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Install and use appliances according to the manufacturer's instructions. |
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Never use unvented gas or kerosene heaters in closed spaces, especially sleeping areas. |
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Don't use gas appliances such as an oven, range, or clothes dryer to heat the home. |
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Leave a window cracked about an inch for ventilation and fresh air. Ventilation is important to keep fuel-burning space heaters from consuming too much oxygen in the house. |
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Do not leave a space heater on when you are not in the room or when you go to sleep. |
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Electric space heaters should be checked for signs of fraying or splitting wires or overheating. Likewise, electric space heaters frequently cause fires by overloading electrical outlets. |
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Keep space heaters away from combustible materials/products. |
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