Be Safe Clearing Snow Around Gas Meters

12-27

When clearing snow, CenterPoint Energy reminds its home and business customers to use caution around gas meters. In recent winters, CenterPoint has responded to gas leaks caused by snowblowers and snowplows hitting meters.

The meters are designed to withstand winter weather, but the outdoor meter has a vent that regulates gas pressure. That vent must be clear of ice and snow to work properly.

To stay safe, CenterPoint Energy has the following reminders.

Don’t pile snow on or near your natural gas meter. Maintain a clear path to your meter to allow access in an emergency.
Don’t use a snowplow or snow blower near the meter. Instead, carefully shovel around the meter and move snow away from it. Use a broom or brush to gently clear snow or ice from the top of the meter and piping.
Mark your meters. Especially for business properties and parking lots, place high-visibility safety flags or cones by natural gas meters and regulators to mark their location and prevent snowplows from hitting them.
Never kick or hit your gas meter or its piping with a shovel, hammer, or any hard object to break away built-up snow or ice.
Call CenterPoint Energy at 800-296-9815 for assistance if your meter is coated with ice or it is directly below a downspout or a roof valley with a gutter, or the overhang or eaves do not fully extend over the meter. These conditions put the meter at risk of ice buildup.
If you suspect a natural gas leak, leave the area immediately on foot and tell others to do the same. When safely away, report the leak by calling 911 and the CenterPoint Energy emergency hotline at 800-296-9815.

For more natural gas safety tips, click here.

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