UGI Utilities, a natural gas and electric provider serving over 740,000 customers, has released safety guidelines for the holiday season to help ensure secure celebrations amid increased travel and home gatherings. The guidelines address natural gas safety, fire prevention, heating maintenance, and decoration hazards, emphasizing proactive measures to prevent accidents.
One primary safety issue UGI emphasizes is natural gas detection. In crowded homes, awareness of the distinctive rotten egg odor added to natural gas is crucial. If detected, immediate evacuation to a safe distance—at least a football field away—is necessary before contacting emergency services or UGI. The company stresses not turning anything on or off while evacuating.
Heating system maintenance is another critical aspect. UGI urges homeowners not to delay professional servicing of heating units and fuel-burning appliances to prevent dangerous carbon monoxide buildup. The utility recommends installing working carbon monoxide detectors on each floor and considering natural gas detectors for added safety.
With kitchens active during holidays, UGI highlights increased cooking fire risks, particularly on Thanksgiving—identified by the National Fire Protection Association as the leading day for such incidents. To mitigate risks, the company advises keeping flammable items away from hot surfaces, maintaining a clean cooking area, turning off appliances when not in use, and ensuring functional smoke detectors and fire extinguishers.
For those frying turkeys, UGI provides specific safety measures, including thoroughly thawing the turkey, maintaining at least 10 feet from buildings, keeping children and pets away, and never leaving the fryer unattended.
Decorating safety is also addressed. UGI warns against placing Christmas trees, gifts, and decorations near heat sources like fireplaces and radiators. They advise turning off tree lights when leaving or sleeping, watering live trees regularly, using extension cords properly, and inspecting and discarding damaged holiday lights.
By sharing these tips, UGI Utilities demonstrates commitment to customer well-being beyond energy provision, underscoring the importance of vigilance and preparation. For additional safety information, the company encourages visiting https://www.ugi.com, which provides further guidance on energy safety and efficiency.
