Today's Update
Updated 11:00 a.m. 10/28/07
(These messages are updated as we receive new information)
TOPLINE MESSAGES:
- Our first concern and priority is the safety of residents, emergency crews and our employees as we deal with this emergency.
- There are no major impacts to the SoCalGas transmission and distribution system, storage fields or operations facilities.
- SoCalGas crews are entering fire-damaged areas, where allowed by fire officials, to assess damage, repair natural gas service lines and meters, and restore service to customers.
CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE:
- Sempra Energy has set up a $5 million fund to aid customers and communities impacted by the Southern California wildfires. This special fund will be devoted to helping customers in the service territories of SoCalGas and SDG&E who have experienced hardship, and also to help communities recover from disaster in a variety of ways. This program is funded by Sempra Energy – not through utility rates.
- SoCalGas customer teams also are mobilized at the San Bernardino recovery center. Customers can receive information on customer assistance programs and safety information. SoCalGas’ Web site also has firestorm information.
SAFETY MESSAGES:
- Customers returning home after having been evacuated are asked to check their natural gas service and if service is off or they smell or hear a natural gas leak, to call SoCalGas at 1 (800) 427-2200.
- Do not attempt to try to turn natural gas service back on. A SoCalGas representative will be sent to the residence to restore service. Interior natural gas piping and appliances must be inspected for possible damage before service can be safely restored.
- If there is a smell or sound of natural gas leaking, the natural gas should be manually turned off at the meter. Using an adjustable wrench, make a quarter-turn of the valve, moving it from a vertical position to a horizontal position.
- If the odor is strong, leave the residence. Don’t flip a light switch when the smell of natural gas is strong.
- Do not turn off your gas, unless you smell or hear a gas leak
RESTORATION TIMES:
- Our job right now is to assess damage, repair and restore service, and to ensure the continued safe operation of our natural gas system.
- We request patience by customers in areas impacted by the fires as SoCalGas crews begin making repairs and restoring natural gas service.
- SoCalGas crews are in the field, working closely with fire personnel to ensure the safety of the public and firefighters.
