PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Amy Bass
Director, Corporate Communications
417-625-5114 abass@empiredistrict.com
THE EMPIRE DISTRICT GAS COMPANY REMINDS CUSTOMERS TO BE ALERT FOR NATURAL GAS ODOR
JOPLIN, MO - October 31, 2014 - With the heating season beginning, The Empire District Gas Company once again reminds customers to be alert for the smell of natural gas, a warning sign there may be a safety hazard.
Natural gas has no scent of its own. The odor is added for safety reasons to aid in the detection of a natural gas leak. The rotten egg smell allows the detection of even the tiniest leak. If you smell gas, do not attempt to locate the source. Instead:
• From a safe distance, call Empire's emergency gas leak number at 800-406-9220.
• Do not turn any electrical switches, appliances, or lights on or off, or unplug electrical appliances when there is a strong gas odor.
• Do not use telephones in the area of a strong gas odor.
• Do not smoke or use lighters, matches, or other open flames.
Additional safety reminders include:
• Follow manufacturer's instructions for safe operation of natural gas appliances.
• Keep an approved and charged fire extinguisher near natural gas appliances or equipment.
• Arrange for natural gas appliances and equipment to be installed and/or repaired by a trained professional.
• Teach children not to turn on or attempt to light a natural gas appliance.
Based in Joplin, Missouri, The Empire District Electric Company (NYSE:EDE) is an investor-owned utility providing electric, natural gas (through its wholly owned subsidiary The Empire District Gas Company), and water service, with approximately 217,000 customers in Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. A subsidiary of the Company also provides fiber optic services. For more information regarding Empire, visit www.empiredistrict.com.
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