Friendly Reminder to Keep Vents Clear of Snow and Ice

Winter Storm Clean up Safety Tips

• Clear exhaust vents from direct vent gas furnace systems to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Make sure your carbon monoxide detectors are working as it is a silent, odorless, killer.
• Clear snow from around vehicle exhaust pipes before starting the vehicle to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Make sure emergency generators or secondary heating systems are well ventilated because their fumes contain carbon monoxide

Heavy snow can have an impact on home meters, especially natural gas meters and vents. As snow accumulates, Unitil advises customers to take the following steps:

Remove snow and ice carefully from a meter or outdoor appliance vent carefully with a broom. Do not use a shovel as it can damage the meter.

Avoid shoveling or plowing snow up against or covering the meter or pipe.

Remove icicles from overhead eaves and gutters to assure dripping water does not freeze the meter or vent pipe. Contact a qualified roofing vendor if you cannot reach icicles yourself.

Do not kick your gas meter in an attempt to break ice off, as this too can cause damage.