New Jersey Natural Gas Safety Alert

Before the Storm:

• Check around the outside of your house and secure any loose items that could blow around and damage your house.
• Do not attempt to turn natural gas service off at the meter. Natural gas is distributed through underground pipelines; in most cases, your service should continue without interruption. Natural gas service should only be turned on or off by utility personnel.
• In the event of an evacuation, please do not turn off your natural gas service at the meter.

During and After the Storm:

• If you use a generator during an electrical outage, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions on proper venting and operation.
• Since natural gas is colorless and has no scent, a strong odorant, which smells like rotten eggs, is added to help you detect possible leaks. However, some persons may not be able to detect the odorant because they have a diminished sense of smell, or because the odor is being masked by other odors in the area. An unusual noise like roaring, hissing or whistling is another indication of a possible leak.
• If you smell natural gas, immediately leave the premises and call 800-GAS-LEAK (800-427-5325) from a safe location. DO NOT use a lighter, cellphone or landline, switch on/off appliances, lights or even a flashlight on the premises where you smell natural gas, as they can create a spark.
• DO NOT attempt to turn off your natural gas service at the meter. The valve should be turned on or off by emergency utility personnel only.
• DO NOT extinguish or re-ignite a pilot light on your appliances. In the event a pilot light goes out, call a qualified plumber, contractor or NJNG for a safety inspection.
• Should water get into your heating system and/or water heater, or if your natural gas meter is damaged by fallen debris, call our 24-hour response line at 800-GAS-LEAK (427-5325).
• Ensure there is a clear path to your natural gas meter and regulator and keep the area around them free of snow and ice; and make sure the meter, piping and vents are clear, visible and accessible at all times to allow easy access by NJNG employees and first responders in case of an emergency.
• Use a broom or your hands to gently remove snow and ice from natural gas meters, piping and vents; never bang on the meter or pipes; avoid using sharp tools or force near the meter, piping or vents to ensure the integrity of the equipment.
• Carefully remove ice hanging from your roof over your meter and regulator.