Gas safety basics

Most gas safety tips are common sense. But, in today's fast-paced world, accidents can sometimes occur. Take a few minutes to remind yourself of the basic safety rules to follow around your home.

  • Have at least one smoke detector on each floor.
  • Illinois law requires every home and apartment to have a CO alarm within 15 feet of sleeping areas.
  • Never use a stove or oven to heat your home.
  • Keep an all-purpose fire extinguisher in your kitchen.
  • Keep filters and exhausts cleaned and properly vented.
  • Check vents regularly for blockage.
  • Don't store flammable liquids near the furnace or gas water heater.
  • Keep the area around the water heater free of clutter.
  • To prevent scalding, set water heat no higher than 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Have your furnace inspected every year and keep the filter clean.
  • Never hang things from utility pipes.
  • Keep combustibles away from heat sources.
  • Follow a space heater's instructions carefully and use with proper ventilation.
  • Stay away from LP tanks, meters and hookups.
  • Make sure natural gas appliance flexible connectors are in safe working condition.
  • Have a licensed electrician verify corrugated stainless steel tubing in your home is properly bonded and grounded.