National Grid reminds its customers to exercise caution near the energy equipment outside of their homes as they clear snow and ice left behind from Upstate New York’s most recent winter storm. More than two feet of snow fell in many areas during the extensive multi-day winter storm, which also brought gusty winds, sleet and freezing rain. National Grid’s top priority is safety, including the safety and well-being of our crews and customers, and we offer the following reminders to assist with removing snow and ice from your property.

Snow and Ice Buildup on Your Roof

Snow buildup on roofs and eaves could cause stress on electricity service wires and connections – also known as the weatherhead – creating the potential for fire or broken lines. Likewise, clearing snow near service wires presents the risk of shock. Also:

• Electric wires connected to your weatherhead are live and a potential hazard to anyone attempting to clear snow.
• Stay at least 10 feet away from overhead power lines at all times.
• Keep all ladders, shovels, roof rakes and other devices well clear of any lines coming from the street to the structure, regardless of the material the equipment is made from. In extremely wet conditions, even wood can conduct electricity.
• Start clearing snow from the opposite end of the roof from the service point where electricity is delivered.
• Keep falling snow and ice away from exterior meters and connection points for utilities, including electricity, natural gas, cable television and telephone.
• If this is your first time clearing snow from your roof, or you are not completely comfortable doing so contact a licensed and insured contractor or roofing company, as many offer this as a service.

Keep Your Meters Clear of Snow and Ice

Many National Grid customers have electric and/or natural gas meters on the exterior of their homes and businesses. When clearing snow, customers and snow removal contractors should be aware of the location of this equipment to avoid coming into contact with meters or outside gas risers. Additionally:

• Gently remove icicles from the meter with a gloved hand, if necessary. Never kick your meter or use a snow shovel to knock away ice.
• The buildup of ice and snow around or over natural gas meters, regulators and pipes can pose a serious safety risk. Ice and snow falling from a roof can damage gas meters or service connections to customers’ homes or businesses, resulting in potential gas leaks. Customers should take immediate action if a natural gas leak is suspected:
  • Get out – All occupants should leave the house immediately. Do not use the telephone, light switches or automatic garage door openers for any reason.
  • Call us – After leaving the house and reaching a safe environment, call National Grid’s 24-hour gas emergency number: 1-800-892-2345.
  • Stay out – Don’t return to your home until National Grid tells you it is safe to do so.
• If energy equipment is located near your driveway or parking lot, and you have a vehicle-mounted snowplow or use a snow removal service, ensure that the equipment is well-marked so the vehicle operator knows to keep a safe distance. Striking a natural gas riser or electric wire with a plow could cause injury and result in repair expenses.

Keep Your Vents Clear

The excessive amount of snowfall from this storm may have increased the snow depth in your yard and near your home or business. When clearing snow from your driveways and walkways, never pile it near vents on the side of the building. A blocked vent – whether it’s a furnace, hot water heater, dryer or sewer – can lead to the buildup of deadly carbon monoxide. Keep the vents clear and free of ice, treating them as carefully as you would an energy meter.

The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are similar to those of the flu, and can include headaches, weakness, confusion, chest tightness, skin redness, dizziness, nausea, sleepiness, heart fluttering or loss of muscle control. If you suspect carbon monoxide is present in your home, immediately go outside and breathe deeply. Then call 911.

Trees, Snow and Your Electric Service

Snowfall places excessive weight on tree limbs and branches, creating potential hazards for energy infrastructure. Downed trees near power lines should be reported to National Grid at 800-867-5222. Visit our website for more information about your electric service and trees. Customers are also reminded to exercise extreme caution near downed power lines:

• Always use extreme caution near downed power lines and wires, and always assume that they are carrying live electricity.
• Never touch a person or an object that is in contact with a downed line, as electricity can pass through to you.
• Take caution when approaching fallen trees, which could have power lines caught in them.
• Remember that water can conduct electricity. If you see a line down in a puddle or flooded area, avoid contact with the water to prevent risk of shock.
• Click here for more downed power line safety tips.

To learn more about electric and natural gas safety, visit our website – nationalgridus.com.

About National Grid

National Grid (NYSE: NGG) is an electricity, natural gas, and clean energy delivery company serving more than 20 million people through our networks in New York and Massachusetts. National Grid is focused on building a smarter, stronger, cleaner energy future — transforming our networks with more reliable and resilient energy solutions to meet state climate goals and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.