What To Know About Winter Weather and Your Utilities

Winter is quickly approaching as are the challenges winter weather brings. 

Utilities are no exception when it comes to the impact of snow and ice. Help us keep your family and our crews safe this winter by practicing safe utility habits.

Stay away from downed power lines and anything downed lines may be touching.

Ice and wind from a winter storm can damage power lines. Report fallen lines immediately to CFU by calling 319-268-6999. If you are in a vehicle that comes into contact with a downed line stay in the vehicle until help arrives.

Be prepared for a power outage. 

Use surge protectors on home electronics to prevent most damage from lightning or electric service disruptions.

If your power is out do not operate gas lanterns heaters or cook stoves without adequate ventilation. If you have a generator always run it outdoors and away from doors windows and air vents. 

It is important to have your generator installed by a qualified electrician. Never connect the generator to an electrical outlet. If your generator is not connected properly electricity could backfeed power lines during an outage causing a dangerous situation for our line crews who are working to repair the lines.

Keep your meter and path to it clear. 

Snow and ice can also present a safety hazard for your gas meter. Heavy or hard-packed snow and ice on your gas meter may prevent CFU staff from being able to access and accurately read and service your home’s meter.

Meter readers need access each month and quick access in an emergency can be critical for your safety.

You should never let your meter get completely covered or shovel snow up against it. Use a broom to gently sweep it away and never kick or hit the gas meter or its piping to break away snow or ice.