Mo Safe Gas

Snow, Ice, Damage Meters, Block Chimneys

Missouri winters are tough on gas meters and pipes. Keep your gas meter clean in the winter by gently removing snow with a broom. Brooms are the best because they won't damage the meter if you use it cautiously. The build-up of ice and snow on gas equipment can make the equipment susceptible to damage or cause operational problems.  Remember that if you smell gas, leave the area and call your gas company from another location.  Click here for a listing of Missouri Natural Gas Operators. 

Snow and ice can also block chimneys or air vents for gas appliances. Be sure to check and clear these frequently to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. 

Natural Disasters: What to Do

Tornadoes, earthquakes, floods. These disasters can damage the structure of  your home - and possibly loosen pipes. If your home or business is damaged and you think you smell gas or hear it leaking from somewhere, evacuate immediately. Call 911, then the gas company from another location. Don't relight pilots. Wait until authorized personnel tell you it's safe to go back inside. It's a good idea to keep the number of your natural gas provider in a wallet or purse, or even in your vehicle, so you can find it easily during an emergency.

Best Ways to Store Flammable Items

Everyone has flammable liquids in the house. The key to staying safe is to use and store these items - particularly cleaning products - away from gas stoves or other items powered by open flame. If you need to use a bug bomb - especially during those pesky summer months - be certain to extinguish pilot lights before you begin. And never use these products in the same room as a gas water heater. Any spark could ignite explosive vapors.

Hot Water Heater Tips

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission says to adjust your water heater settings to no more than 120 degrees. The best way to check the temperature is to place a meat thermometer under a hot-running faucet for about two minutes. Adjust the temperature accordingly, and double check it in a few days. If you don't know how to reset your hot water heater temperature, contact a professional plummer or heating specialist for help.