National Grid : is Prepared for Region’s First Big Snowstorm

BROOKLYN/HICKSVILLE, NY - National Grid is closely monitoring an impending Nor'easter with the potential for significant snowfall and high winds arriving this weekend. National Grid is prepared for the storm and will continue to provide heat to customers. National Grid is prepared for the storm and will continue to provide safe, reliable service. Natural gas is distributed through an underground system that typically operates uninterrupted, even in severe weather.

Storm Preparation

National Grid is monitoring the storm track and has made several preparations for the impact. Crews will be performing flood patrols in low lying areas; we have ensured adequate staffing and will add staff for the overnight as storm path and impact becomes more solidified. We will be strategically planning the positioning of vehicles and equipment to ensure timely emergency response and safety.

The safety of our customers is always the top priority for National Grid and we want our customers to take the proper safety precautions. Here are a few safety tips for customers to be prepared and stay safe.

Keep Gas Meters Clear of Snow and Ice

As customers dig out their homes and businesses, it's important to note that deep snowpack and additional snow left by snow removal equipment may clog vents to furnaces and other appliances and may cause equipment to shut down or draw exhaust fumes into a home.

Test CO and Smoke Alarms

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible, odorless gas. Install a government-approved home CO detector on every floor of their home. The symptoms of CO poisoning are similar to those of the flu. Depending on the amount of CO in the air and length of exposure, symptoms may include headaches, weakness, confusion, chest tightness, skin redness, dizziness, nausea, sleepiness, fluttering of the heart or loss of muscle control. If you suspect CO is present in your home, go outside immediately and call 911. Do not return to your home until the source of CO is found.

Smoke detectors safe lives confirm that you have working smoke detectors in every bedroom to ensure you "hear the beep where you sleep" in the event of a fire. Spring into action and replace the batteries.

Inspect fire extinguishers at least once a month, ensure that: the extinguisher is not blocked by equipment, coats or other objects that could interfere with access in an emergency; the pressure is at the recommended level; the nozzle or other parts are not hindered in any way; the pin and tamper seal (if it has one) are intact; and there are no dents, leaks, rust, chemical deposits and/or other signs of abuse/wear. If you don't currently have a fire extinguisher, get one. Base your selection on the classification and the extinguisher's compatibility with the items you wish to protect.

Report a Gas Emergency

Natural gas has an odor similar to that of rotten eggs. If you suspect a gas leak, all occupants should leave the building immediately. Do not use the telephone or light switches for any reason.

• Call - After leaving the house and reaching a safe environment, call 911 or the National Grid 24-hour gas emergency number for Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island at 718-643-4050, on Long Island and the Rockaway Peninsula call 1-800-490-0045 or call 911.

For additional tips visit here for New York City and Long Island natural gas safety information.