Stay safe and warm during cold winter months

Dec. 21 was the first official day of winter, and Columbia Gas wants to ensure customers are prepared for the cold temperatures and adverse weather ahead. Here are some tips to help customers stay safe and warm this season.

Inside your home

—Space heaters can provide comfort but should be used with caution. When using one, ensure it is placed on a hard, nonflammable surface away from furniture and flammable materials/products.

—Ensure appliances and heating equipment such as a furnace, water heater and stove are inspected and operating properly. All equipment should be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

—Never use a stove or oven as a heat source in your home; ovens are designed to heat food and should only be operated with the door closed.

—Don’t burn charcoal or run a generator indoors or in enclosed spaces.

—Clean your chimney and check for blockages at least once a year before using your fireplace.

Outside your home

—Remember to clear snow and ice from your intake and exhaust vents. This can help you avoid carbon monoxide buildup and operational issues with your appliances.

—Keep your meter visible at all times so it is accessible for maintenance or in an emergency.

—Don’t use a shovel or hammer to break up snow or ice on your meter. Use a broom instead.

—Be careful using a snow blower or plow near your meter.

Carbon monoxide

—If you smell the “rotten egg” odor or think there may be a gas leak, stop what you are doing, Leave the area immediately and call 911 and Columbia Gas at 800-344-4077.

—If you’re concerned there may be CO build-up or if you are experiencing CO poisoning symptoms including headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, irregular breathing, or feeling ill or tired at home but fine when you’re away, get outside immediately and call 911.

—CO is an odorless, tasteless, noncorrosive gas created when fuels such as gasoline, wood, natural gas, propane or oil burn incompletely.

For more winter weather and gas safety tips, visit www.columbiagasohio.com/safety/weather-safety/winter-weather-safety.