After the driveway, shovel out natural gas meters, vents, fire hydrants, too

Enbridge Gas says natural gas meters and appliance vents should be cleared of snow. (Enbridge/handout)

With up to 35 centimetres of snow falling on Ottawa, shovelling the driveway is on a lot of people’s minds.

But there are other things to keep clear of snow, to ensure your own safety and the safety of others.

Enbridge Gas is reminding residents to keep natural gas meters and external appliance vents clear of snow and ice.

• RELATED: Snowfall warning calls for up to 35 cm of snow in Ottawa

“Clearing snow and ice from your gas meter and appliance vents is essential for safety,” said Enbridge Gas Ontario Manager of Utilization Anita Chiappetta, in a news release. “Doing so prevents dangerous blockages, keeps your appliances running efficiently, and ensures emergency crews can access your meter quickly if an unexpected situation occurs.”

Blocked vents can cause a buildup of carbon monoxide, which can cause health problems and even death in high concentrations. Snow-covered meters can also disrupt gas pressure, leaving families without heat.

• IN PICTURES: The biggest snowstorm of the year blankets Ottawa

Enbridge says natural gas meters are built to withstand harsh winter conditions, but when covered by snow or ice, their ability to regulate gas pressure can be compromised.

When shovelling around your property, you’re reminded to avoid piling snow against your gas meter or vent pipes. You’re also reminded not to hit the meter to shake off snow or ice and to clear overhead drips and icicles, to ensure water is dripping and freezing on your meter.

Fire hydrants

If there is a fire hydrant near your home, consider clearing snow from around it as well.

Clearing snow from around a fire hydrant helps ensure firefighters have quick, unimpeded access to it in the event of an emergency. When every second counts, it can take several minutes to clear a hydrant of snow.

The City of Ottawa recommends clearing a half-metre radius around your local hydrant if snow is piled up.

Snow shoveling precautions

Shovelling snow is a common activity in Canada, but it can lead to harm if you’re not careful.

The Ottawa Heart Institute warns that shovelling can place higher demands on your heart, and your blood pressure may reach dangerous levels.

If you can, arrange to have someone else shovel for you, but if you are going to shovel, there are tips to avoid harm:

• Warm up before the activity
• Cool down gradually afterward
• Take your time and rest as needed
• Wait one hour after a meal before shovelling snow
• Use a light, small shovel
• Limit the amount of snow in the shovel
• Don’t lift the shovel too high
• Use your leg muscles (do not just use your arms)