Hurricane Safety
When hurricane season is upon us, we as Floridians, should be familiar with gas safety. When a hurricane threatens, leave the gas on unless notified by us. Because most gas facilities are located underground, rarely does a hurricane threaten your service.
Gas ranges with pilot lights require no additional care. Continue to cook as usual. When the electricity is off, surface top burners with electric ignition can be easily lit. Simply:
- Light match (preferably a wooden match)
- Hold match next to the top burner cap
- Then turn the control knob to the “light” or “high” setting. The burner will light and you can adjust the flame.
Most ovens and broilers on ranges with electric ignition cannot be used when the power is off.
If Asked To Evacuate
If Asked To Evacuate
Leave the gas on. Turning off the gas could result in unnecessary delays in restoring your service. It is not necessary to turn off the gas at your meter or, if you use propane, at your tank. Should Lake Apopka Natural Gas deem it necessary to turn off the service, Company representatives will inform you. By leaving the gas on, you will be able to cook and, as long as there is a reliable supply of water, you will have hot water. Leaving gas on also helps you avoid reconnection fee
After A Hurricane
After A Hurricane
Clean-up efforts after previous hurricanes show that more gas lines are broken during clean-up than during the actual storm. Before removing fallen trees, call for a FREE utility line location by Dialing 8-1-1.
If You Smell Gas
If You Smell Gas
Do not do anything to cause a spark (i.e., using a garage door opener, portable phone, etc.). Immediately evacuate the premises and call Lake Apopka Natural Gas District’s 24/7 emergency number at 800-542-3344 or 9-1-1. It is important to call from a telephone away from the building where you smell gas. In the case of a gas leak, our first responsibility is to make sure the area is safe. Service will be restored as soon as possible. All District personnel carry identification and will, upon request, show their identification before entering your home.
If Flooding Occurs
If Flooding Occurs
If your home or business was flooded and gas appliances were underwater, do not attempt to operate the appliances. Water can cause damage to the internal safety mechanism and create a hazardous condition. Call Lake Apopka Natural Gas or a qualified appliance contractor for a safety inspection and to relight the pilot lights on your appliances.
Check yard for loose items. Move and secure items not firmly installed before the storm arives. This includes grills, patio furniture, swings, pool equipment and supplies, even water hose reels. Items such as these can be blown around by hurricane winds causing unnecessary damage to your home, propane tank or gas meter.