Here's what natural gas customers should do when floods threaten

With potential floods predicted in Minnesota, CenterPoint Energy reminds residents to be safe when dealing with their natural gas appliances. Home Service Plus (HSP) offers the following tips.

Before a flood:

Do not turn off natural gas at the meter. The gas meter should be left on to maintain proper pressure in the gas piping within the house and to prevent water from entering the lines should flooding occur.

If a customer wishes to discontinue gas service, the gas should be turned off at each appliance.

During a flood:

Call the gas company if flooding is threatening the entire residence.

After a flood:

If your home was flooded and your gas meter was underwater, call CenterPoint Energy to schedule an inspection. The meter may need to be replaced.

Have flooded appliances inspected by a qualified technician, like one from HSP before operating the equipment. This includes outdoor gas appliances also, such as pool heaters, gas grills and gaslights.

If your home did not flood and your natural gas is turned off at the meter, call CenterPoint Energy to reconnect service.

Be alert for leaking gas as you return to your home or business to assess damage. If you smell gas, leave the area immediately on foot and tell others to do the same.

Do not turn the lights on or off, smoke, strike a match, use a cell phone or operate anything that may cause a spark, including a flashlight or driving your car.

Do not attempt to turn natural gas valves on or off.

Once safely away from the area, call the 24 hours emergency gas leak hot line number 1-800-296-9815 and 911 to report the location and description of the leak.

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