National Fuel reminds customers to stay safe in cold weather

National Fuel Gas Distribution Corp. is advising customers to take particular care while Western New York is experiencing this extremely cold weather. Though temperatures have been colder than usual, the company is prepared to deliver the gas needed for customers to keep warm on these cold days.

Anyone knowing of a resident or family living without heat should urge them to contact National Fuel immediately to discuss restoring the service or call the company with their name and address. A representative will review the situation and offer options for getting the service back on. Special payment plans or community services may be available to assist them. Customers should call 1-800-365-3234, Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Beginning today, customers who received a regular HEAP benefit may call the local department of social services office to apply for a $400 emergency HEAP benefit. One must have a shut off notice to apply for the emergency HEAP benefit. Callers should be prepared with their case number, social security number, utility account numbers, household income and resource amounts (bank account balance, etc). The HEAP hotline is 1-800-342-3009.

During the winter, especially after heavy snow or icy conditions, it is important to keep home and natural gas meters safe. National Fuel officials want to remind everyone to clear snow and ice from exhaust and combustion air vents for gas appliances to ensure proper operation and prevent carbon monoxide accumulation in homes. Keep the area around and above the meter free of snow and ice and clear a path to the meter for easy access. Remember to use caution when shoveling, plowing or snow blowing around the meter. Use a broom to remove snow from the meter itself. To avoid accidental damage by a third party, inform anyone who works near your meter (such as a snow removal service) of its location. Please do not try to melt or break the ice yourself.

If you are experiencing an emergency due to the extreme cold weather, call National Fuel's emergency number at 1-800-444-3130. This line is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

National Fuel Gas Distribution Corp. is the utility segment of National Fuel Gas Co., a diversified energy company that is engaged in a number of natural gas-related activities. The utility provides natural gas service to approximately 730,000 customers in Western New York and northwestern Pennsylvania. To learn more about natural gas safety, visit www.NationalFuelGas.com.