Atmos Energy is offering safety tips in an effort to help people prepare for bitterly cold temperatures.
Temperatures of below zero degrees, along with frigid wind chills, will settle into the area for the next few days and Atmos Energy is reminding customers to never use an over or a gas stovetop to heat your home, protect natural gas meter and minimize the risk of frozen pipes by leaving faucets running at a drip and leave cabinet doors open to let heat reach those pipes. Safely remow snow or ice from vents of dryers and other natural gas equipment, as blocked vents can lead to a dangerous build up of carbon monoxide gas.
Weatherize your building by sealing gaps and cracks in windows, doors, exterior walls, and roof penetrations with caulk or weatherstripping.
Change furnace filters once a month during winter. Dirty air filters can lead to dust, dirt, and grime buildup on the heating components, causing the furnace to use more energy and increasing the risk of a malfunction.