According to the latest forecast from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the Atlantic and Gulf coasts are likely to experience an above-average hurricane season from June 1 through Nov. 30 this year. Atmos Energy will continue to monitor and prepare for severe weather, encouraging residents to take proactive steps that help ensure personal safety.
“Hurricanes pose a threat to life and property, and Atmos Energy reminds everyone that the best time to plan is now – well before a storm arrives,” said Bobby Morgan, Atmos Energy vice president of public affairs. “If a hurricane makes landfall, please do not use natural gas equipment that is flooded or damaged without first contacting a qualified service professional to have it inspected.”
If you suspect a natural gas leak or think you smell natural gas inside the home or neighborhood, act fast! Leave the area immediately and from a safe distance call 911 and the Atmos Energy Emergency Number at 1-866-322-8667.
Atmos Energy service technicians are emergency responders who ensure the safe operation of its system, performing essential services in compliance with social distancing guidelines to limit the spread of COVID-19. If any customers experience an interruption in service, Atmos Energy essential workers will restore service once local conditions are deemed safe. Whether it is a storm, flooding, or other severe weather events, please observe these tips to stay safe:
- During a natural disaster or severe weather event DO NOT turn off natural gas at the meter, even if evacuations are issued.
- If you smell gas, immediately leave the affected area and from a safe distance call 911 or Atmos Energy’s 24-hour emergency response line at 1-866-322-8667.
- NEVER try to find the source of a gas leak.
- DO NOT use a mobile phone or anything that might cause a spark, such as a generator.
- If flooding occurs at a residence or business and the gas appliances are under water, do not try to operate the appliances. Instead, contact Atmos Energy or a qualified service professional to conduct a safety inspection.
- If a natural gas meter is damaged or a gas line is exposed, immediately leave the area and call the Atmos Energy 24-hour emergency response line at 1-866-322-8667.
- Know where your natural gas meter is located. Make sure it’s visible and free of trash and debris. Mechanical equipment used to clean up after a storm may damage the meter if it is hidden.
- Natural gas distribution pipelines are mostly underground but can be damaged by uprooted trees and shifted foundations. After a storm, call 811 to have the location of underground utility lines marked, as gas service lines could become tangled.
- Atmos Energy customers experiencing a natural gas outage or service interruption should contact the company’s customer service number at 1-888-286-6700. Customers will be restored as quickly as possible once the area is deemed safe.
For natural gas safety tips during severe weather, please visit www.atmosenergy.com/weathersafety.
