Vectren Energy Delivery (Vectren) wants to remind residential and commercial customers to proceed with caution when removing snow and ice around gas meters at their homes or businesses this winter.

Ice and snow accumulation can interfere with the proper operation of the gas meter given it needs to be able to release gas in case of a malfunction. Snow removal activities can also pose a hazard to the gas meter assembly or piping and result in a dangerous leak.

Follow these guidelines when removing snow and/or ice:

• Remove large icicles hanging over meter assemblies and appliance vents.
• If your gas meter is near a sidewalk or driveway, make sure whoever removes snow from your property is aware of its location.
• Use a broom – not a shovel – to clear snow from your meter assembly and vents.
• Particular attention should be paid when moving snow on a commercial lot. Be sure not to pile snow around gas meters.
• Consider installing driveway entrance reflectors around gas meters in close proximity to a roadway or driveway.