Stay safe this holiday season by avoiding hidden dangers at home
Ameren Missouri urges customers to take the steps necessary to avoid natural gas leaks and carbon monoxide poisoning
With the holiday season in full swing, many Missourians are turning up their furnaces to keep their homes warm and welcoming as they entertain friends and family during Christmastime. As customers open their homes for parties and get-togethers, Ameren Missouri reminds everyone to stay vigilant and avoid the hidden dangers of natural gas leaks and carbon monoxide poisoning.
Natural gas is a safe and efficient way to heat a home, but improper use or maintenance of appliances can lead to an unexpected release or leak of natural gas. Leaks can be dangerous because natural gas is highly flammable and easily ignited by heat or sparks.
“If you smell an odor of rotten eggs or hear a hissing or leaking sound near an appliance, we recommend that you leave the premises immediately without attempting to ventilate the property,” said Pam Harrison, senior director of gas operations for Ameren Missouri. “From a safe distance upwind, call Ameren Missouri at 1.800.552.7583 and stay away until we deem the area safe.”
The company also urges customers to protect their families against the potential buildup of carbon monoxide in their homes ahead of the holidays. As a first line of defense, Ameren Missouri recommends installing carbon monoxide detectors outside each bedroom and on every level of the home. Carbon monoxide is a tasteless, odorless gas – it is crucial to test detectors monthly.
Every year, carbon monoxide poisoning kills hundreds of Americans and sends thousands more to the hospital. Poisoning and illness can occur when fossil fuels and other materials are burned without proper ventilation. Potential sources of carbon monoxide can be found where improper burning of gasoline, natural gas, propane, kerosene, coal, wood and charcoal occurs.
To prevent natural gas leaks and carbon monoxide poisoning, Ameren Missouri encourages everyone to:
Have all appliance repairs and annual checks performed by a qualified professional.
Keep all appliances clear of combustibles such as flammable liquids, newspapers, cardboard boxes, rags and lumber.
Ensure natural gas-burning equipment, such as furnaces, water heaters or clothes dryers, are properly vented.
For more natural gas and carbon monoxide safety tips, please visit Ameren.com/NaturalGasSafety.