Natural Gas Safety: Removing snow from meters

Norwich Public Utilities (NPU) reminds natural gas customers to be aware of a number of safety tips regarding their gas meters this winter.

It is important to keep the area around the meter free from snow so, that fire departments and other emergency response agency personnel have access to gas meters in case of an emergency shut-off situation.

NPU Meter Readers also need easy access to the meters so that we can avoid estimating usage for customer bills.

When removing snow around gas meters:

• Make sure you know the exact location of your meter before you begin to remove snow.
• Maintain a safe distance between gas meters and shovels, snowblowers, and other equipment while shoveling.
• Never push snow against gas meters, gas piping, or appliance vents and make sure all vents are free of snow or other obstructions.
• Never pile snow on top of gas meters, gas piping, or appliance vents.

All-natural gas customers should be aware that gas meters that are buried in deep snow or damaged by snow removal equipment could begin to leak, which could lead to a potentially hazardous situation.

Customers are encouraged to report any problems with their meters to NPU’s gas emergency line at 860-887-7207. If there is a natural gas odor – natural gas smells like rotten eggs – exit the premises and call 911 immediately.