FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Nov. 4, 2025                
CONTACT: Leah Mohr, South Dakota Public Utilities Commission, (605) 773-3201 or (605) 280-4327

PUC reminds South Dakotans to follow natural gas safety best practices
this winter

PIERRE, S.D. – With winter right around the corner, the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission is highlighting the importance of following natural gas safety recommendations, including keeping natural gas meters and vents clear of snow and ice, all season long. In recent winters, failure to follow this important step led to the loss of two South Dakota homes.

“Gas meters are built to withstand extreme weather and freezing temperatures, but buildup of snow and ice can still cause serious damage. Such problems have been known to lead to leaks and malfunctions, so regular checks to ensure your gas meter is clear of snow and ice should become part of your winter routine,” explained PUC Chairman Gary Hanson.

If you find your meter is not clear, any frozen layers should be gently removed with a broom or your hands. Never kick, hit or chip at the meter with a hard object. If the ice accumulation is heavy and you are unable to remove it yourself, call your natural gas provider for assistance.

“Make sure all external vents for furnaces and other gas appliances, are not covered by snow or ice,” recommended PUC Vice Chairman Chris Nelson. “Adequate airflow is essential for safe combustion and venting when using gas equipment. Without it, you are at serious risk of a dangerous carbon monoxide buildup,” he stated.

One of the most known warning signs associated with natural gas leaks is the strong odor that accompanies it, but there are other signs you should also look out for. Seeing a mist, white cloud or dense fog and hearing a hissing or whistling sound near the meter should also be red flags. Any of these can signify a potentially hazardous situation.

“There are a few things you can do now to ensure your family is as safe as possible this winter. This is the perfect time to consider installing carbon monoxide detectors or gas alarms that will alert you to dangers you may not have noticed. It is also the best time for parents to sit down with kids and talk about natural gas safety. Simple things like teaching them that natural gas smells like rotten eggs and that if they smell gas, they should leave fast can be lifesaving,” stated PUC Commissioner Kristie Fiegen.

Protecting your natural gas meter is essential to ensuring your family and home stay as safe as possible this snowy season. For parents, taking the additional step to establish a plan now, including where to go and who to call, if something were to happen while a parent is not home can help make what could be a scary situation, easier to manage.

For more tips about natural gas safety, visit the PUC website at  puc.sd.gov/consumer/ngmetersafety.aspx.

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