Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) is offering free in-home gas safety checks to help customers get their appliances ready for colder weather. As part of the visit, PG&E crews will also re-light pilot lights for heaters and other gas appliances that were turned off during the warmer months.
These safety checks ensure that appliances like water heaters, furnaces, and ovens are working properly and efficiently, helping reduce the risk of carbon monoxide (CO) buildup inside the home. CO is especially dangerous because it’s invisible, odorless, and silent. Each year, more than 400 Americans die from unintentional CO poisoning that isn’t related to fires, and tens of thousands end up in emergency rooms or hospitalized. So far this year, PG&E has responded to more than 6,000 suspected CO incidents.
PG&E encourages customers to schedule their free inspection before winter temperatures drop and gas appliance use increases. Appointments can be made online at www.pge.com/pilotlights
or by calling 800-743-5000.
Winter Gas Safety Tips
Carbon monoxide detectors should be installed on every level of the home, especially near bedrooms and common areas. California law requires CO detectors in all single-family homes. Test detectors twice a year, replace batteries as needed, and check the expiration date—most devices last five to seven years.
Consider adding methane detectors near gas appliances for an added layer of protection. Never use generators, outdoor grills, propane heaters, or cooking appliances like ovens and stoves to heat your home. If using a fireplace, make sure the flue is open so smoke and fumes can vent properly. Ensure water heaters and all other gas appliances have proper ventilation.
For more winter heating safety and energy-saving tips, customers can visit PG&E’s website.
If you suspect carbon monoxide in your home, leave immediately and call 911. If you ever smell the “rotten egg” odor of natural gas, evacuate right away and call 911, then PG&E at 1-800-743-5000.
Nothing is free from PGE – we pay for all of it
How about a $25,000 PG&E we’re sorry for all the pain and suffering refund check?
Shouldn’t a methane detector be kept away from the bathroom?
PG&E should install methane detectors in all of their boardrooms, to protect them for the methane they produce from all of them talking out of their @$$!!!