More snow in the Northwoods has brought a reminder to keep your natural gas meters and appliance vents free of snow and ice.
Wisconsin Public Service spokesperson Matt Cullen says the build up of ice and snow could be a safety problem..
"A build up of snow and ice can damage the natural gas meter. The weight that snow and ice puts on the meter can damage the piping and that could cause a natural gas leak. We want to remind customers when a snow event is happening, while clearing their driveway or sidewalks, to take a few moments, use your hands or a broom to clear the ice and snow from the natural gas meter..."
Cullen says appliance vents also need to be clear to prevent possible carbon monoxide build up in the home. Cullen says a covered meter also is more difficult for WPS natural gas mechanics to get access and work on the system, including in an emergency.
He says customers also should clear large icicles or sheets of ice on roofs that are above meters to prevent the ice from falling and damaging the equipment.
