If you are in Canada, you can choose from the different energy sources. These are, but not limited to oil, natural gas, hydroelectricity, solar, and the wind. In the province of Manitoba and nearby communities, Manitoba Hydro natural gas is available to the public.
Manitoba Hydro is electric power and natural gas utility located its headquarters in Winnipeg. This natural gas distribution company is a Crown Corporation having recent projects in Brandon. It has a total of 257, 700 residential, commercial and industrial customers.
Manitoba Hydro-Electric Board governs this provincial corporation. Outside workers of the organization are members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. Majority of the hydropower provides electricity; thus, rates of utilities are lower.
However, what is natural gas? Is it advantageous to you and safe to use? What will you do during emergencies and how to avoid accidents.
What Is a Manitoba Hydro Natural Gas?
Natural gas appears under the earth’s surface. This gas is composed of methane and a compound consisting a carbon atom and four hydrogen atoms.
Natural gas has various uses and is safer compared to other fuels. This source of energy is also the cleanest burning conventional fuel. It only produces 45% lesser carbon dioxide compared to coal.
This gas is lighter compared to air and is extremely flammable. Natural gas has no odor and color. If the concentration of this gas would rise, this can become an asphyxiant displacing oxygen in the air.
What to Do During Emergencies on Manitoba Hydro Natural Gas
Natural gas is colorless and odorless; thus, an odorant called mercaptan is added giving a rotten egg odor. Even though natural gas is safer compared to other energy sources, dangers can still arise. Thus, knowing how to avoid and respond to gas hazards is very important.
During winter, fireplaces and heaters are always used. This may increase carbon monoxide poisoning. Symptoms of poisoning may include but not limited to a headache, nausea, vomiting, weakness, and fainting.
If you smell the rotten egg odor, carbon monoxide detector goes off, or experienced symptoms of poisoning:
– Do not draw panic among family members
– Do not light anything that can cause fire or source of ignition.
– Leave your place immediately and left the door open.
– Report the incident directly, call 911.
– Stay out of the area until it is declared safe.
How to Avoid Manitoba Hydro Natural Gas Emergencies and Accidents
Before any accidents could happen, you can prevent it.
Meter
The build-up of snow and ice on your meter during winter can be dangerous. This build-up can block the vent, and excess gas pressure into your home is welcomed. The accumulation of snow could add weight to the pipeline causing gas leak.
Thus, you need to take care of your gas meter. Check and slowly clean it regularly. Avoid removing the snow through kicking, instead call the Manitoba Hydro customer service.
Vents
The sidewall vents are usually seen on furnace and water heating installations. These should be kept clear and monitored for the safe operation.
Furnace
Always make sure that your furnace is operating correctly. Have it regularly checked by a professional heating dealer. Keep materials that are combustible away from the furnace.
Furnace maintenance can avoid CO poisoning.
Better Safe Than Sorry
If you have an existing account at Manitoba Hydro, you may contact its participating contractors for your maintenance needs. The company offers a program on savings and rebates and loans and financing for your furnace and other equipment.
You may also call us now for assistance and information. We offer an affordable cost for your needs and deliver quality works.