HURON – Fire department and utility company officials are reminding home and business owners of the importance of keeping snow and ice from accumulating around natural gas and electric meters on their structures as well as fire hydrants in their neighborhoods.
Huron and much of central and eastern South Dakota have experienced a series of snowstorms with wind and more of the same is on the way.
NorthWestern Energy is once again encouraging customers to check their meters to ensure they aren’t covered by snow or ice.
City workers have been pushing snow away from fire hydrants, but residents are welcome to clear snow away if they see a hydrant in their neighborhood that has not been opened up yet, said Fire Chief Ron Hines.
A NorthWestern Energy official said accumulation around gas and electric meters could affect the proper operation of the equipment.
Mike Williams, North Division operations manager, said natural gas meters require open air in order to operate properly and safely.
The utility company, which issued a similar advisory in early January, is asking customers to clear a path to the meters in the event a first responder needs emergency access to shutoff points.
Also, customers should inspect their furnace’s exhaust venting to make sure it is clear of ice build-up and is not covered by snow. An outside vent that is blocked can prevent the natural flow of deadly carbon monoxide out of homes and other buildings.
People are urged to use caution around electric power lines when removing snow from roofs or knocking ice off eaves.
