Winter utilities and safety tips shared

5:26 PM, Dec. 26, 2013  |  Comments

The weather has turned frigid, and blowing snow and ice have become an issue at times. The Campbellsport Fire Department offers information on the dangers that winter weather can cause to your home.

? Gas meters and regulators:

All gas regulators are designed to vent out to atmosphere if there is a problem with the gas system. If blowing snow and ice surround it, that can't happen. It is necessary to keep snow and ice off the regulators and meters. In case of a fire, one of the first things the fire department does is turn the gas off. They can't do that if they can't find it. On an LP system, the regulator is a round and is located on an LP tank; a second one is usually located near the house. On a natural gas or municipal system, the regulator is located on the gas meter. The regulator looks like a big pancake. Clear the snow and ice away.

Electric meters:

These usually are not at risk for snow and ice buildup. In case of a fire, the fire department may remove the meter to cut power to the house. They can't do this if they can't find it. You need to keep this meter free of snow as well.

? Furnaces and water heaters:

Many newer models vent out the side of your house. Many times they are low to the ground and can be packed in by blowing snow. There are two pipes for the high efficiency furnaces and one for the water heater. If they are blocked and cannot vent, it may create a carbon monoxide hazard or it may not operate at all.


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