Winter Weather Safety

When winter weather approaches, preparation makes all the difference. Chesapeake Utilities is ready to provide safe, reliable natural gas service even during severe conditions. Our underground natural gas system helps protect service from winter weather, and our teams work year-round to deliver dependable energy you can count on.

We’re also here to help you prepare. Sharing simple safety tips is part of our commitment to keeping you, your family and your home safe this winter.

Use Heating Equipment Safely

  • Heat your home only with appliances designed for indoor use, such as your furnace.
  • Never use stoves, ovens, grills or other appliances not intended for space heating.
  • If you use a portable space heater, place it on a hard, level surface.
  • Keep flammable items, including bedding, curtains and rugs, at least three feet away from space heaters.

Keep Vents and Air Intakes Clear

  • Furnaces, stoves, fireplaces and dryers require proper ventilation to operate safely.
  • Check outdoor vents and air intakes regularly, especially after snowfall or freezing rain.
  • Gently clear away snow or ice using a broom or brush.
  • Never block or place items in front of vents or air intakes.

Operate Generators Safely

  • Use generators outdoors only.
  • Keep generators well away from doors, windows and vents to prevent carbon monoxide from entering your home.

Protect Your Natural Gas Meter

  • Natural gas meters are designed to withstand winter weather but must remain clear of snow and ice.Never use grills, camp stoves, ovens or other outdoor appliances indoors or in enclosed areas.
  • Gently brush snow and ice away from the meter.
  • Never chip ice or use hot water, salt or chemicals.
  • Avoid piling snow near the meter and use caution when shoveling or using snow blowers nearby.

Help Prevent Frozen Pipes

  • Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas.
  • Open cabinet doors beneath sinks to allow warm air to circulate around plumbing.

Install and Maintain Carbon Monoxide Detectors

  • Install carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home and within 10 feet of sleeping areas.
  • Test detectors regularly.
  • Replace batteries as needed or when the alarm alerts you.

If You Smell Natural Gas

Natural gas has a distinctive odor similar to rotten eggs.

If you smell gas:

  • Leave the area immediately on foot.
  • Call 911 and 800.427.2883 from a safe location.
  • Do not use phones, light switches or electronics while exiting.

Help Managing Winter Bills

Cold weather can lead to higher energy bills, and Chesapeake Utilities is here to help. If you’re having trouble managing winter heating costs, customer assistance programs and flexible payment options may be available.

Energy Assistance Programs
Federal, state and local programs are available to help income eligible households with heating costs during the winter months.

Chesapeake SHARE Program
Customers who are elderly, disabled or living on a fixed income may qualify for a grant toward their natural gas heating bill through the SHARE Program.

Payment Plans and Extensions
If you are having difficulty paying your bill, Chesapeake Utilities’ Customer Care team can help you explore payment plans, extensions and budgeting options and connect you with local assistance resources.

Contact our Customer Care team by calling 800.427.2883, Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Delivering reliable energy and supporting our customers year round is part of the Chesapeake Utilities commitment.