UGI Utilities, Inc. is advising its more than 760,000 natural gas and electric customers to take safety precautions as a winter storm approaches and temperatures drop across the region. The utility company emphasized the importance of preparation as severe weather conditions threaten the area, with a focus on protecting both families and homes during periods of extreme cold and potential power disruptions. The advisory comes as weather forecasts predict significant snowfall and sub-freezing temperatures across UGI's service territory, which spans multiple states, making this guidance relevant to a broad population facing winter storm threats.
The company recommends several key safety measures for customers to implement immediately. These include ensuring proper ventilation for all fuel-burning appliances, keeping flammable materials away from heating equipment, and installing carbon monoxide detectors with battery backups. UGI strongly advises against using ovens or stoves as primary heating sources, which can create dangerous carbon monoxide buildup. The company's safety message extends beyond immediate storm preparation to include general winter energy practices, emphasizing that many winter-related incidents are preventable through proper appliance maintenance, awareness of gas leak indicators like the smell of rotten eggs, and knowing how to shut off utilities in emergencies.
Energy conservation during extreme weather events represents another critical component of UGI's advisory. The company suggests setting thermostats to lower temperatures when homes are unoccupied, using programmable thermostats to manage heating efficiently, and sealing drafts around windows and doors. These measures not only reduce energy consumption but also help maintain system reliability during peak demand periods when the electrical grid faces maximum strain. Proper preparation can prevent emergencies and reduce the strain on utility infrastructure during severe weather events that often lead to increased service calls and potential outages.
These proactive steps help ensure customer safety while supporting the utility's ability to maintain reliable service during challenging weather conditions. Additional information about UGI Utilities, Inc. and their safety protocols is available at https://www.ugi.com. The utility serves customers across multiple states, making this advisory particularly important as winter storms can create hazardous conditions that affect large populations simultaneously. By following these guidelines, customers can protect themselves while helping to ensure the stability of the energy grid during periods of extreme weather demand.
