PUC ENCOURAGES UTILITY CUSTOMERS TO KEEP NATURAL GAS METERS FREE FROM SNOW AND ICE

DENVER -- The Colorado Public Utilities Commission (PUC), a division of the Department of Regulatory Agencies, is encouraging natural gas customers, especially those in mountain communities with heavy snowfalls, to keep their gas meters clear of snow and ice to prevent accidents.

“The accumulation of snow and ice on natural gas meters is a safety hazard,” said Stephan Pott, chief of the PUC’s Gas Pipeline Safety Unit. “Snow can block the vents on meters causing a potentially explosive build-up of natural gas that can leak back into the building.”

Due to heavier-than-normal snowfall in Colorado mountain towns this winter, gas utilities are reporting a greater number of incidents involving meters covered by ice and snow.

The problem of melting snow and ice falling on exposed meters will continue through the spring as daytime temperatures rise and then fall below freezing overnight. Customers who notice ice on their meters or are concerned that meter vents may be blocked should contact their local gas utility.

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DORA is dedicated to preserving the integrity of the marketplace and is committed to promoting a fair and competitive business environment in Colorado.  Consumer protection is our mission

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