Gas line safety: what to do after the storms, tornadoes

The severe storms and tornadoes that hit the Miami Valley on Memorial Day have left many residences without natural gas service.

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Vectren shut down service to many homes to ensure the safety of all customers and property, Vectren spokeswoman Natalie Hedde said Tuesday.

If anyone smells gas, they should get out of the area and call 911 or call Vectren directly, said Hedde.

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"I don't recall a disaster with this level of damage," she said.

Residents of damaged areas will be inspected by Vectren before the gas is turned back on, said Natalie Hedde corporate communication director at Vectren.

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Hedde also said that if your gas line was secured properly before Vectren turned off the gas, then the customer does not need to worry about safety precautions for when the gas is restored.

If you need to contact Vectren for additional informational you can reach them at 1-800-227-1376.

The Ohio Public Utilities Commission offers six tips when dealing with potential gas leaks:

• Do not attempt to locate the leak
• Do not turn any electrical appliances on or off
• Do not smoke or use any open flame
• Leave your residence and from a safe distance call the utility company and 911.
• When digging outside, call the utility company if a gas line is damaged
• Do not attempt to repair the line