Spire reminds customers to prepare for hurricane season

Spire reminds customers to prepare for hurricane season

MOBILE, AL (June 25, 2024) – With the start of hurricane season, Spire is encouraging customers to be prepared in the event of severe weather. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is predicting an above-average 2024 Atlantic hurricane season and Spire wants to remind customers of ways to be prepared before a storm and to know steps to take afterward to stay safe.

“There is no better time than the present to adequately prepare for hurricane season,” said Karl Ficken, Spire Gulf and Spire Mississippi director and general manager. “Natural gas is reliable, and our underground gas lines typically withstand tropical storms. While our crews are always prepared to jump into action in the case of a hurricane event, we want to make sure our customers are prepared as well.”

In the event of a hurricane, Spire has the following tips:

• Have an emergency plan in place and practice the plan with your family. Visit cdc.gov/hurricanes for tips
• For those who live in a mobile or manufactured home, Spire recommends customers turn off natural gas at the meter before the storm arrives. After the storm, customers can schedule a reconnection when they’re ready. Customers should not try to restore service on their own
• Consider a natural gas generator for protection from power outages. Always operate generators outside of the home
• Stay tuned to local TV or radio stations for the latest information and additional safety precautions
   

After the storm has passed, Spire recommends customers take these steps:
If they do smell gas:

• Do not operate any electrical appliances including light switches
• Do not attempt to locate a gas leak with any open flame
• If there is an odor or sound of escaping gas, leave the building immediately and call Spire. If a customer is unable to get through, call 911

If they don’t smell gas:

• Check the furnace, water heater and other gas appliances for damage
• Check chimneys and flues, clearing them of any fallen bricks and other obstructions
• And remember, many natural gas appliances, including the water heater, stove, grill and generators can still be used if the power is out

For more information, customers can visit spireenergy.com/severe-weather-safety.