ENERGY SAFETY IS PART OF KEEPING OUR HOMES SAFE

This is another safety message from Mesa Gas.

The month of June is dedicated to home safety.  Safety in our homes is important to us all and the communities in which we live.   Learn about and practice energy safety while enjoying the comforts and conveniences brought to your home by natural gas and electric service. . It’s as easy as one, two, and three:

ONE… TEACH THE BASICS OF ENERGY AND ENERGY SAFETY TO YOUR FAMILY! Learning about natural gas and electricity is the first step toward keeping yourself, your friends and family, and the community safe. Energy safety requires that you learn to:

• RECOGNIZE an energy emergency.  Know that natural gas smells like rotten eggs and that a downed power line is dangerous.
• REACT quickly to an energy emergency.  Leave the area immediately and do not return until you are certain it is safe or you are told you may do so by an emergency official.
• REPORT energy emergencies promptly.  In the event of a gas emergency, call 480-644-4277 or 911.  If you see an electric emergency, call 480-644-2266 or call 911.

TWO… PRACTICE ENERGY SAFETY DAILY!

• Follow manufacturer instructions for the care and use of gas and electric appliances.
• For gas appliances, look for the blue flame which indicates fuel is burning efficiently.
• Keep the areas around gas/electric appliances clean & unblocked to allow for proper air flow and avoid tripping hazards.
• Never store household chemicals or combustible materials near gas appliances.
• Don’t forget… if you suspect a gas emergency such as a rotten egg odor, REACT AND REPORT!
• Always call 811 before digging to have underground utilities located.
• Water and electricity don’t mix.   Don’t use electric appliances near water or when you are wet.

THREE… JUST IN CASE, HAVE A PLAN! Despite all your energy safety efforts, there are steps you should take to prepare for a possible emergency including:

• Install smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors in your home and check batteries frequently.
• Make an escape map that includes two exits out of every room and pick a meeting place outside.
• Practice safety drills for getting the family out of the house quickly.
• Make sure there is at least one multipurpose fire extinguisher in your home and learn how to use it.
• Review energy and home safety tips regularly with ALL family members.

Visit http://www.mesaaz.gov/energy for more information.