UGI Issues Winter Storm Preparedness and Energy Safety Guidelines

UGI Utilities, Inc. is urging customers to prepare for an approaching winter storm and practice energy safety as temperatures drop across the region. The natural gas and electric utility, which serves more than 760,000 customers, issued the reminder to help ensure public safety and minimize potential risks associated with severe winter weather. The announcement comes as forecasters predict significant snowfall and freezing conditions that could impact service reliability and create hazardous situations for residents.

The company emphasized several key safety precautions that customers should implement immediately. These include ensuring proper ventilation for all heating equipment, keeping flammable materials away from heat sources, and having working carbon monoxide detectors installed on every level of the home. UGI also advised customers to clear snow and ice from gas meters and outside vents to prevent potential blockages that could lead to dangerous carbon monoxide buildup indoors. Additional information about UGI Utilities, Inc. and its safety programs is available at https://www.ugi.com.

For customers who may experience service interruptions during the storm, UGI provided specific guidance on what to do if they smell natural gas. The company instructed customers to leave the area immediately without using any electrical devices, including light switches or phones, and to call UGI from a safe location. The utility also reminded customers that snow removal equipment should be used carefully around utility markers and meters to avoid damaging underground lines or above-ground equipment.

The winter storm preparedness announcement includes recommendations for creating emergency kits that contain essential items such as flashlights, batteries, non-perishable food, water, and blankets. UGI suggested that customers keep mobile devices charged and have backup power sources available for medical equipment that requires electricity. The company also encouraged customers to check on elderly neighbors and relatives who may be particularly vulnerable during extreme weather events.

UGI's safety message extends beyond immediate storm preparation to include general winter energy safety practices. The utility recommended regular maintenance of heating systems by qualified professionals and cautioned against using ovens or stoves as primary heat sources. Proper insulation of pipes was also highlighted as a crucial measure to prevent freezing and potential water damage. As winter weather patterns become increasingly unpredictable, such preparedness measures take on added importance for community resilience and safety.

The utility company maintains emergency response teams that are prepared to address service issues throughout the storm period. Customers experiencing outages or other utility-related emergencies can contact UGI through established channels. The company's emphasis on proactive safety measures reflects its commitment to customer welfare during challenging weather conditions that test infrastructure and require coordinated community response efforts to ensure everyone remains safe and warm.