National Grid is Prepared for Region’s First Big Snowstorm

BROOKLYN/HICKSVILLE, NY – National Grid is closely monitoring an impending Nor’easter with the potential for significant snowfall and high winds arriving this weekend. Natural gas is distributed through an underground system that typically operates uninterrupted, even in severe weather.

Storm Preparation

National Grid is monitoring the storm track and has made several preparations for the impact. Crews will be performing flood patrols in low lying areas; we have ensured adequate staffing and will add staff as the storm path and impact are known. We will be strategically planning the positioning of vehicles and equipment to ensure timely emergency response and safety.

The safety of our customers is always the top priority for National Grid and we want our customers to take the proper precautions. Here are a few safety tips for customers to be prepared.

Keep Gas Meters Clear of Snow and Ice

As customers dig out their homes and businesses, it’s important to note that deep snowpack and additional snow left by snow removal equipment may clog vents to furnaces and other appliances and may cause equipment to shut down or draw exhaust fumes into a home or building.

Test CO and Smoke Alarms

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible, odorless gas. A government-approved home CO detector should be installed on every floor of a home. The symptoms of CO poisoning are similar to those of the flu. Depending on the amount of CO in the air and the length of exposure, symptoms may include headaches, weakness, confusion, chest tightness, skin redness, dizziness, nausea, sleepiness, fluttering of the heart or loss of muscle control. If you suspect CO is present in your home, go outside immediately and call 911. Do not return to your home until the source of CO is found.                

Smoke detectors save lives. Confirm that smoke detectors are working in every bedroom to ensure you “hear the beep where you sleep” in the event of a fire.

Report a Gas Emergency

Natural gas has an odor similar to that of rotten eggs.  If you suspect a gas leak, all occupants should leave the building immediately. Do not use the telephone or light switches for any reason.

After leaving the house and reaching a safe environment, call 911.

• National Grid 24-hour gas emergency numbers:
  • Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island call 718-643-4050
  • Long Island and the Rockaway Peninsula call 1-800-490-0045

For additional tips visit here for New York City and Long Island natural gas safety information.