Your outdoor natural gas meter is designed to work in harsh winter weather. However, heavy accumulations of snow and ice can damage your meter and create safety hazards. Here are a few basic tips to help keep you safe this winter:

• Make sure your meter is free of clutter and other obstructions, especially snow and ice.
• When clearing walks or driveways, do not pile snow on or near the meter.
• Keep water from dripping from your roof and freezing on the meter.
• Carefully remove icicles and snow buildup from roof eaves above the meter and on the meter itself.
• Never kick or strike the meter to loosen built-up ice or snow.
• Ensure snow and ice aren’t blocking exhaust vents or combustion air ducts. Blockages can expose you to deadly carbon monoxide. Your natural gas appliances, including your furnace, fireplace, water heater, and clothes dryer, require good ventilation to operate properly.

Following these simple steps will reduce the risk of hazards, including natural gas leaks. If you regularly experience snow burying your meter, please contact us at 800-858-5522.

Stay safe and warm this winter with these essential safety tips from JCE Co-op!