WINTER SAFETY: Cold temperatures may create safety hazards and lead to increased energy usage and in turn higher utility bills. With frigid weather expected over the next few days, Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania offers tips to prepare customers to stay safe and warm as well as save on energy costs.

As temperatures drop to their lowest levels so far this winter, staying warm becomes a top priority. Customers implementing ways to ensure their home is comfortable are reminded to do so safely.

— Be sure to clear snow and ice from intake and exhaust vents. Keeping those vents clear can help a resident’s home to avoid carbon monoxide buildup. The symptoms of carbon monoxide are headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, irregular breathing, and feeling ill or tired while at home, but fine when away.

— Space heaters should be used with caution. If using a space heater, place it on a hard, level surface and keep anything flammable at least six feet away.

— Never use a stove or oven as a source of heat in your home; ovens are designed to heat food and should only be operated with the door closed. Also, make sure not to burn charcoal or run a generator indoors or in an enclosed space.

— Residents should clean their chimney and check for blockages at least once a year before using the fireplace.

— Keep the natural gas meter clear and visible at all times so it is accessible for maintenance or in the event of an emergency; never let snow completely cover the meter and don’t use a shovel or hammer to hit the equipment to break up snow or ice buildup.

Individuals who smell the “rotten egg” odor of natural gas or think there may be a gas leak, should immediately stop what they are doing, leave the area immediately, then call 911 and the Columbia Gas emergency line at 1 (888) 460-4332.