BUFFALO, N.Y. — As flooding continues to spread across WNY, National Fuel and local plumbers are putting out reminders to keep residents safe.
Customers may experience flooding in their basements as a result of rising temperatures, rain and melting snow from the previous snowstorms.
If the basement is flooded, customers should not attempt to adjust any gas equipment or their gas meters or re-light the pilot light on natural gas appliances such as furnaces or hot water tanks.
Furnace or hot water tanks may be water damaged, and if that is the case then the floodwater may have caused damage that could affect the safe operation of the equipment. National Fuel reminds people to always call a qualified contractor to inspect the appliances if so.
A plumbing manager from Roy's Plumbing, John Dollendorf, spoke with 2 On Your Side about issues people can face when it comes to flooding.
"One of the houses we were just at over at down the street their basement flooded. They had a plug in the basement and that blew out and flooded the basement. You gotta be really careful going into that because if there's any power or anything under there you could get electrocuted," Dollendorf said.
If you're basement isn't flooded, Dollendorf also says that now would be a good time to check your sump pump and make sure it is clear of any debris.
People should also make sure the water is able to flow into any drainage system and maintain it, especially if you have an older sump pump as they have a certain life expectancy.
Gas valves that have been turned off by National Fuel or emergency personnel when flooding has occurred should not be turned on by any customers. Appliances affected by floodwater should remain turned off, customers will be required to contact a heating contractor or plumber to verify the equipment will operate safely.
Contact National Fuel once the water has subsided, and the company says they will test and restore the service at no charge to its customers.
If a gas odor is present, National Fuel customers should open a window for ventilation, leave the premises and call National Fuel immediately at 1-800-444-3130. Remember to not use any appliances or operate any electrical switches if a gas odor is present.
