In order to prepare for a storm while dealing with natural gas, practically nothing needs to be done. However, it is a good decision to prepare other necessities in case any problems come up.

• To begin preparing, you should build an emergency kit and make a family communications plan.
• Consult www.ready.gov/hurricanes for methods on how to secure your home.
• Know your surroundings.
• Learn the elevation level of your property and whether the land is flood-prone. This will help you know how your property will be affected when storm surge or tidal flooding are forecasted.
• Identify levees and dams in your area and determine whether they pose a hazard to you.
• Learn community storm or hurricane evacuation routes and how to find higher ground. Determine where you would go and how you would get there if you needed to evacuate.
• Hurricanes cause heavy rains that can cause extensive flood damage in coastal and inland areas.

In the case of an evacuation:

Simply turn the thermostat to the off position before leaving

For outdoor appliances, consider turning the shut-off valve to the off position while away


Do not attempt to:

Disconnect your gas service or work on or around your gas meter

Relight any of your gas appliances

Clear flood debris from your gas meter or from any other gas appliance, including your water heater

Hurricanes cause heavy rains that can cause extensive flood damage in coastal and inland areas. If your home floods and it comes in contact with natural gas appliances, call Okaloosa Gas at 850-729-4700 so we can inspect your meter and your natural gas appliances for possible flood damage.

• Check natural gas appliances first
• Make sure to check for the smell of natural gas which indicates a possible leak
• Do not attempt to make repairs yourself or use unauthorized, unlicensed individuals to work on your natural gas appliances (Unauthorized repairs can be unsafe and may void your warranty)
• Call 811, Before you Dig or request line locate online with Sunshine 811 at least two full business days before digging or disturbing the ground in any way, including to uproot trees or grind tree stumps .
• For the most part, all of your natural gas utilities should still work properly, even if the electricity is out. Don’t forget to contact Okaloosa Gas at 850-729-4700 if anything seems wrong. NEVER be afraid to call.