HONOLULU – As the 2020 hurricane season begins today, Hawai‘i Gas, the state’s only gas utility, is encouraging residents to plan early and prepare in order to ensure safety and resiliency during a storm or severe weather event. Gas is a low-carbon vital energy source in a crisis and can be a part of your daily life. Here are some helpful tips to make sure gas will be ready for you in an emergency:
- Portable propane tanks (20 pounds) used for gas grills should be checked regularly to make sure they are in good working condition. Always keep portable tanks in an upright position. Never store tanks in an enclosed area like a garage or shed. When not in use, keep tanks away from heat sources such as stoves and grills, and away from electrical outlets or other sources of ignition. Consider anchoring or bracing your tank to help prevent it from moving, sliding, or falling over during a natural disaster.
- Hawai‘i Gas customers with installed propane tanks and cylinders should monitor their gas levels. If your tank level is low (less than 30%) or you have recently switched to your back-up cylinder, please contact your local Hawai‘i Gas office to schedule a delivery.
O‘ahu: (808) 535-5933
Maui: (808) 877-6557
Hilo: (808) 935-0021
Kona: (808) 329-2984
Kaua‘i: (808) 245-3301
Moloka‘i: 1 (800) 828-9359
Lāna‘i: 1 (800) 828-9359
- Keep an eye out for potential gas leaks. Common signs of a potential gas leak include: smelling gas (an odor like rotten eggs); hearing an unusual hissing or blowing noise from a gas appliance, cylinder, or exposed gas piping; seeing holes in the ground with gas hissing or blowing out of them; or seeing gas bubbling at the surface of a body of water such as a puddle. If you suspect a leak, turn off the gas, leave the area, and call 911 or Hawai‘i Gas Emergency at (808) 526-0066.
- Reliable energy for home and business. Your gas appliances may still work without power. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to use your appliance or contact your local Hawaii Gas office.
- Consider a backup generator. A propane or natural gas generator can supply electricity if the power goes out and serve as a secondary source of energy for lighting, refrigeration, and other needs.
The public can stay up to date with the latest news and storm season tips from Hawai‘i Gas at HawaiiGas.com, by following Hawai‘i Gas on Facebook and following @higoodenergy on Twitter and Instagram.
