As the weather turns colder, the potential increases for hazards such as ice, snow and frigid temperatures, Northern Indiana Public Service Company LLC (NIPSCO) is reminding customers to prepare now so that they can keep their homes and families safe and warm this winter.
“Your meters, regulator and outdoor piping can withstand harsh winter weather, but hardpacked snow, icicles and water dripping on outdoor equipment can create a safety risk,” said Vince Parisi, NIPSCO President and Chief Operating Officer. “We encourage our customers to know what to do to protect themselves and their families and also keep the heat on and appliances operational when you need them the most.”
Outside your home:
• Be sure to clear snow and ice from your intake and exhaust vents. Keeping these vents clear can help you avoid carbon monoxide buildup and operational issues with your appliances.
• Keep meters clear and visible at all times so it is accessible for maintenance or in the event of an emergency; never let snow completely cover the meter and don’t use a shovel or hammer to hit the equipment to break up snow or ice buildup.
Inside your home:
• Space heaters should be used with caution. If using a space heater, place it on a hard, level surface and keep anything flammable at least three away, such as bedding, drapes, curtains or rugs.
• Make sure all appliances and heating equipment—such as a furnace, water heater or stove—are inspected and operating properly, and operate all pieces of equipment according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Never use a stove or oven as a source of heat 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 an enclosed space.
• Clean your chimney and check for blockage at least once a year before using your fireplace.
What to do in case of a potential gas leak or carbon monoxide danger:
• If you smell the “rotten egg” odor of natural gas or think there may be a gas leak, stop what you are doing, leave the area immediately, and then call 911 and the NIPSCO emergency line at 1-800-634-3524.
If there are concerns of a carbon monoxide build-up, or if you are experiencing symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, go outside immediately and call 911.
o Carbon monoxide is an odorless, tasteless, non-corrosive gas created when fuels (such as gasoline, wood, natural gas, propane, or oil) burn incompletely.
o Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can include headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, irregular breathing, and feeling ill or tired while at home, but fine when away.
For more winter weather and home safety tips, visit nipsco.com/winter.
IDEM introduces new “Local Air Quality Advisory” for short‑term conditions
Hollywood actor died of natural causes
Indiana Governor Mike Braun extends suspension of gas tax
Letter Carriers' Food Drive this Saturday
Cops Cycling for Survivors to honor more than 300 Indiana officers during 25th annual ride
Peebles 'humbled' with victory
Smith, Hartman secure wins in Parke County Commissioner races
Smith, Russell earn Republican nods for Rockville Town Board
Family of RP student who died wants changes along highway
Indiana State Police launch Wellness Section to support personnel, families and retirees
IHSAA approves Personal Branding, while basketball shot clock proposal fails
Indiana BMV extends hours of operation for the primary election
Smith looks to claim Parke County Commissioner seat
USDA opens enrollment for Grassland Conservation Reserve Program
Governor ceremonially signs bill co-authored by Baird to combat animal cruelty
New online portal brings transparency to Indiana gas prices during declared energy emergency
Electric vehicle fire training held at Rockville-Adams Township Training Center
Indiana FSSA announces results of HCBS attendant care audits - $200 Million in improper payments
