The BC Safety Authority (BCSA) reminds homeowners to take care of their gas meters.
“Your gas meter, which measures the amount of gas that you use, is an important part of your gas system,” says Wayne Lock, Gas Safety Manager with the BC Safety Authority. “Snow and ice on a meter can damage its fittings and pipes causing leaks and potentially a fire hazzard. A gas meter covered in snow or ice can impede its function of controlling the gas pressure, which could lead to serious risks.” |
Here are a few tips on how to properly care for your gas meter in the winter:
- Be familiar with your meter, its shut-off valve, and piping.
- Keep your meter accessible: never bury it, lean anything on it, enclose it in a building, tie anything to it or cover it with a deck.
- Carefully remove any snow build-up on your meter with your hands. Don’t kick or strike any ice off your meter.
- Have the phone numbers of your gas supplier ready in case of emergencies.
“Check your gas meter after each snowfall,” says Lock. “Call your gas supplier immediately if your gas meter becomes encased in ice.”
For more gas safety information and to download more tips to share with your family and friends go to: http://www.safetyauthority.ca/safety-information/homeowners/gas.