Terasen Gas urges homeowners to protect their natural gas appliances in case of flooding this spring

May 4, 2007

SURREY - With higher-than-average recorded snow packs and the growing possibility that widespread flooding will occur this spring, Terasen Gas is finalizing flood preparedness planning.

Since January, our flood planning team has been reviewing and updating our regional flood preparedness plans and are currently working with communities to ensure the most current and up to date information. Terasen Gas has also been liaising with the government of BC and other agencies to identify operational roles, responsibilities and actions that will ensure public safety, as well as minimize damage to our gas transmission and distribution systems.

Before the flood

If you have advance warning and think flood water levels could reach your natural gas appliances:

Have a licensed heating contractor remove the electric motor, burner and controls from your furnace and shut off the gas and electric supply.
Have a licensed heating contractor remove hot water tanks, clothes dryers and ranges and cap and properly thread seal the gas pipe leading to the appliance shut off valve. This is to prevent the escape of natural gas or back flow of flood water into the gas piping system.
If you don't have time to remove your gas appliances, turn off the electric power to each appliance and leave it off. Shut off the gas supply valve to the appliance. The valve is usually found on the gas line to the appliance. Do not drain hot water tanks – just shut off the water leading to and from the tank.

If you must evacuate your home in a hurry, shut off your gas at the meter. Using a wrench or other suitable tool, give the main shut-off valve on the inlet pipe next to your gas meter a quarter turn in either direction so that it is crosswise to the pipe.

After the flood

If you return home to find water levels were high enough to cover your meter, you must do the following to ensure your safety:

Call Terasen Gas at 1-888-224-2710 to have your meter and regulator inspected before using your gas system. Flood waters may have shifted your home or caused other stresses to the gas piping, possibly resulting in a gas leak.
Do not try to put natural gas appliances back in service yourself. Gas appliances that have been flooded should not be used until inspected by a licensed heating contractor. They will check, clean, repair and pressure test all gas pipes which have been clogged with mud or debris.

CAUTION: If you smell natural gas or find other evidence of a gas leak, do not enter the building. Call our 24-hour Emergency Line at 1-800-663-9911, your local fire department or 911.

Visit Terasen Gas at www.terasengas.com for more information on natural gas and flood safety.

Terasen Gas delivers natural gas and piped propane to approximately 900,000 homes and businesses in 125 communities throughout BC. Terasen Gas is the common name of three companies: Terasen Gas Inc., Terasen Gas (Vancouver Island) Inc. and Terasen Gas (Whistler) Inc.

Media contact:
Joyce Wagenaar
Corporate Communications Manager
Phone: (604) 592-7682
E-mail: joyce.wagenaar@terasengas.com

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