LOS ANGELES, April 13, 2005 (PRIMEZONE) -- Meter Readers. Service Technicians. Energy-Efficiency Auditors. These are just a few of the Southern California Gas Co. (The Gas Company) employees who regularly visit neighborhoods. Unfortunately, because Gas Company employees are a trusted and common sight in many Southern California areas, criminals may sometimes pose as Gas Company workers to gain entry to customers' homes.
Here are some tips on how on how to verify identification of Gas Company employees:
-- Does the visitor have identification?
Tip: Every Gas Company employee on company business is required
to carry a photo ID badge.
-- Does the worker have on a Gas Company uniform with our company
logo?
Tip: Gas Company workers who perform in-home appliance services,
work on gas meters or work on gas pipeline wear uniforms. However,
some other employees do not. Always ask for identification before
allowing someone inside the home.
-- Has a service appointment been scheduled with The Gas Company?
Tip: Most of the time a Gas Company person visits in response to a
service request. If no one scheduled an appointment, call The Gas
Company at (800) 427-2200 before allowing anyone inside the home.
-- Do Gas Company employees ever stop by without an appointment?
Tip: Yes. But whether they are meter readers, collectors,
inspectors or gas service technicians, Gas Company employees
always carry identification.
Still not sure?
Don't open the door! Call The Gas Company at (800) 427-2200. Gas Company customer service representatives are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
The Gas Company is the nation's largest natural gas distribution utility, providing safe and reliable energy to 19.5 million consumers through 5.5 million meters. The company's service territory encompasses approximately 20,000 square miles in most of central and Southern California. The Gas Company strives to provide exceptional customer service to enhance the quality of life in the community. The Gas Company is a regulated subsidiary of Sempra Energy (NYSE: SRE). Sempra Energy, based in San Diego, is a Fortune 500 energy services holding company. To learn more, go to www.socalgas.com.