NIPSCO shares safety tips for winter weather

As the weather turns colder this week and the potential for hazards such as ice, snow, and frigid temperatures increases, Northern Indiana Public Service Company LLC (NIPSCO) is reminding customers to prepare now to 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 your appliances' carbon monoxide buildup and operational issues.

• Always keep meters clear and visible so they are 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 one, place it on a hard, level surface and keep anything flammable, such as bedding, drapes, curtains, or rugs, at least three feet away.

• Inspect and operate all appliances and heating equipment—such as a furnace, water heater, or stove—according to the manufacturer's instructions.

• Never use a stove or oven as a heat source 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 enclosed.

• 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 about a carbon monoxide build-up, or if you are experiencing symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, go outside immediately and call 911.

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, tasteless, non-corrosive gas created when fuels (such as gasoline, wood, natural gas, propane, or oil) burn incompletely.

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.