As Winter Approaches, Virginia Natural Gas Reminds Consumers of Natural Gas Safety

October 26, 2004

NORFOLK, VA – October 26, 2004 – Yellowing leaves hinting at winter’s approach are vivid reminders that residents of Virginia will soon be firing up their natural gas furnaces. Natural gas is an efficient, clean-burning fuel that is safe to use, but as with any fuel, homeowners should be aware of the steps to take in the event of an emergency.

“At Virginia Natural Gas, safety is our priority, and we are committed to educating Hampton Roads residents about safety,” said Hank Linginfelter, president of VNG. “While we work very diligently to reduce leaks, they sometimes occur. After not using their furnaces during the summer, natural gas customers need to familiarize themselves with the safe way to handle a leak.”

Residents should never try to connect gas furnaces or appliances themselves, he stressed. While natural gas is non-toxic, it is combustible.

“Incorrect installation increases the chances of leaks and creates unsafe conditions,” said Linginfelter. “Leave that job to professionals.”

Natural gas is colorless and odorless, so a substance called mercaptan is added to give gas a distinctive “rotten egg” smell. If the “rotten egg” smell is detected, leave the premises immediately. Then, call VNG’s 24-hour emergency hotline at 1-877-572-3342.

According to Linginfelter, homeowners should remember the following:

• If the rotten egg odor is detected, vacate the premises immediately.
• Do not attempt to locate the gas leak.
• Open doors and windows as you leave if it is possible to do so safely.
• Don’t smoke or strike matches.
• Do not turn lights off or on. Do not unplug electric appliances.
• Do not use a telephone or cell phone.
• When you are away from the house or the location in question, call Virginia Natural Gas on its 24-hour emergency hotline: 1-877-572-3342.
• Do not return until a VNG representative gives the “all clear.”

Safety tips about carbon monoxide
Natural gas furnaces and appliances must be maintained and operated properly in order to prevent the production of carbon monoxide. According to Hank Linginfelter, president of Virginia Natural Gas, this poisonous gas has no odor, taste or color. Warning signs include any unusual behavior in gas appliances or a yellowish-color flame on a gas appliance burner.

“A licensed professional should inspect furnaces and appliances annually to make sure that they are working properly and are vented correctly,” Linginfelter said. “The inspection will also insure that your natural gas furnace or appliance is operating at peak efficiency.”

Fall, when homeowners turn on their furnaces for the winter, is a good time to have an inspection, Linginfelter said, urging Virginia residents not to delay having their natural gas turned on.

“Our weather can change so quickly, and no one wants to be caught in a sudden cold snap,” he said.

For additional safety information, please visit the Virginia Natural Gas web site at www.virginianaturalgas.com.