Urgent Snow Safety Message from Southwest Gas

Category: Nevada
March 7, 2023

CARSON CITY, Nev. — Residents in areas of heavy snowfall who are clearing off their rooftops in advance of the next round of winter storms are urged by Southwest Gas to use the utmost caution and safety to ensure snow and ice does not fall onto natural gas infrastructure. This includes, but is not limited to meters, piping, outdoor appliances, and external natural gas connections. Regardless of whether the home or business has a snow shelter in place, the weight of excessive snow and ice accumulation, whether natural or manmade, can  damage natural gas piping and create a hazardous release of natural gas.
Customers are also reminded to keep the area around their natural gas meter and, if applicable, snow shelter, clear of snow and debris. Do not allow snow to block any appliance exhaust vents. Promptly clear snow or ice build-up around meters by using a broom, not a shovel, whenever possible to avoid causing damage.
 
Customers are reminded about the signs of a potential natural gas leak:
  • The smell of sulfur or rotten eggs, even if only momentary
  • The sound of hissing or roaring coming from the ground or natural gas infrastructure
  • The sight of snow or dirt blowing into the air; standing water that continuously bubbles

If you suspect a natural gas leak, even if you do not have natural gas service, leave the area immediately and call 911 and Southwest Gas at 877-860-6020 .
 
For more important safety tips, including snow safety, click here.

 
Contact:
Stephen Miller, Southwest Gas