Natural Gas in an Emergency- January 2023

 

Neighborhood Emergency Preparedness
January 2023 – Natural Gas

Last month we prepared for extended power outages. This month we’ll learn how to stay warm without natural gas.

Week #1—Got Gas? 😊

Most people have a natural gas furnace and water heater. Staying warm is the biggest concern about losing natural gas during the winter.

Week #2—Do Not Turn Off Gas…

Unless you are sure you smell gas (rotten eggs) and can safely get to the gas meter. To turn off the gas, keep a large crescent wrench in an accessible place, like your 72-hour kit. Only a professional should turn the gas back on.

Leave the area immediately and call 911 from a safe place. Do not smoke, use a lighter/match, or start a vehicle/machine.

Gas lines are remarkably resistant to earthquake damage. The most common cause of broken gas lines is a water heater falling over. Buy and install a water heater strap ($17 - $20).

Week #3—Staying Warm

If you lose natural gas or electricity, you lose your furnace too. You can stay warm, even during the winter, by…

·      Create a micro environment by setting up a small tent inside your house (very effective)

·      Layer clothing (long underwear, shirt, sweater, coat)

·      Winter hat, gloves, boots, etc. (while indoors)

·      Breathe through a scarf (works wonders)

·      Have everyone stay together in the same room

·      Sleep with extra blankets and quilts

Include a hat, gloves, scarf, and warm blanket in each person’s 72-hour kit.

For a 3-minute video, click here.

Week #4—Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipes are a big concern during the winter. You can get warm by evacuating to an emergency shelter, but your pipes may freeze, break, and flood your home while you’re away. Prevent this by either (1) leave faucets dripping just enough to keep your pipes from freezing or (2) turn off the main water valve to your house and drain the water out of all of your pipes. Keep cabinet doors open so the heat in the house will keep pipes warm longer.

Extra Credit—Alternate Heat Source

It’s wise to have an alternate heat source, like a fireplace insert or wood stove. Test your carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they are working.

A small propane heater is another option. There are several simple models made for indoor use ($80 - $110). Make sure it will automatically shut off if tipped over, pilot light goes out, or detects low oxygen. Read and follow all of the instructions.