Storm preparations underway as Piedmont advises customers on how to manage storm-related damage to natural gas equipment and appliances
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Piedmont Natural Gas today announced the activation of its Severe Weather Preparedness Plan in response to Hurricane Florence and has issued a list of safety recommendations for customers who experience flooding or any other damage to their natural gas equipment or appliances as the result of Hurricane Florence.
Piedmont’s Severe Weather Preparedness Plan includes ensuring the availability of additional communication links and resources, adequately fueled vehicles for use by Piedmont personnel in impacted areas, the availability of appropriate equipment in the potential impact areas, and the preparation of its facilities for potentially high winds and flood conditions.
“The safety of our customers and our communities remains top priority for Piedmont Natural Gas as Hurricane Florence approaches the Carolinas,” said Frank Yoho, executive vice president and president of Duke Energy’s natural gas business. “Our experienced technicians already are working to prepare Piedmont’sfacilities for potential flooding, and we’re asking all members of our communities to be aware of the natural gas safety recommendations listed here.”
If water enters your home:
*Do not attempt to disconnect or work on or around your natural gas meter.
*Do not attempt to relight any of your natural gas appliances. Call Piedmont at 800.752.7504 so we can inspect your meter and your natural gas appliances for possible damage.
*Do not attempt to clear flood debris from your natural gas meter or from any other natural gas appliance, including your water heater. Call Piedmont for an assessment.
*Never use outdoor equipment indoors for cooking or heating. This includes natural gas grills, generators, etc.
If your natural gas appliances are damaged by water:
*Natural gas appliances damaged by water may need to be replaced according to manufacturer guidelines and instructions.
*When choosing a contractor for repair or replacement of your natural gas appliances, make sure the contractor is licensed, committed to safety and follows all manufacturer safety guidelines.
*You can choose to work with Piedmont Natural Gas, one of our approved Gas Advantage Dealers, or any other licensed contractor to repair or replace damaged appliances.
* View a list of Piedmont’s Gas Advantage Dealers.
*Note that unauthorized repairs can be unsafe and may void your warranty according to manufacturer guidelines.
*Call your appliance manufacturer if you are unsure that the work being performed is an approved repair.
If you suspect a natural gas leak (natural gas smells like rotten eggs):
*Leave the premises immediately.
*Call Piedmont Natural Gas at 800.752.7504 or dial 911.Call from a neighbor’s house or from another location far from the smell of natural gas.
*DO NOT use anything electrical that may create a spark; this includes cellphones.
*DO NOT operate any light switches.
*DO NOT light a match.
*DO NOT attempt to locate the source of the leak.
*DO NOT attempt to stop the leak.
*DO NOT return to the area until Piedmont Natural Gas or the emergency services have declared the area safe.
*DO NOT attempt to operate pipeline valves yourself. You may inadvertently cause more danger or additional damage.
*DO NOT attempt to extinguish a natural gas fire.
Wind-related damage:
If you see or suspect damage to natural gas lines or facilities due to uprooted trees or wind-related damage, call Piedmont Natural Gas at 800.752.7504 or call 911.
Call 811 before you dig:
Call 811 to have your natural gas lines located and marked (for free) before you remove uprooted trees, rebuild storm-damaged structures or dig anywhere on your property.
Customers with immediate questions or concerns should call Piedmont Natural Gas at 800.752.7504. Additionally, customers can also visit the company’s website at piedmontng.com for additional information and storm-related updates.
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