LOS ANGELES, June 2, 2005 (PRIMEZONE) -- Southern California Gas Co. (The Gas Company) crews are working overtime to restore service to the estimated 362 natural gas customers whose service was interrupted by the massive landslide that struck a residential canyon area of Laguna Beach yesterday.
As a safety precaution, The Gas Company shut off natural gas service to the area yesterday afternoon, due to landslide pipeline damage. The company estimates that the restoration of natural gas service could take two or more days.
"Our crews are working closely with emergency officials in the areas affected by the landslide to evaluate the situation and restore natural gas service as soon as possible," said Hal Snyder, vice president of gas distribution for The Gas Company. "Our first priority is safety -- for our customers, employees and emergency personnel."
Prior to restoring residential natural gas service, The Gas Company's crews will perform a thorough safety inspection, which includes the following:
-- Isolating and capping damaged underground gas pipelines;
-- Testing the pressure of gas pipelines that serve customer
homes; and
-- Safety-checking appliances in every affected customer's home.
Customers who smell natural gas should call The Gas Company at (800) 427-2200. Customers who are awaiting restoration of service are asked to become familiar with the natural gas safety tips listed below.
The Gas Company is requesting that news media stress these following safety tips, also found on The Gas Company Web site, www.socalgas.com/safety:
NATURAL GAS SAFETY TIPS
-- DO NOT shut off the gas meter, unless there is a gas smell.
The Gas Company already has shut off gas in the affected areas
of Laguna Beach.
-- If there is a gas smell, shut off the meter by turning the
shut-off valve to the horizontal position and call The Gas
Company. If the odor is strong, leave the premises. Do not
flip a light switch when the smell of gas is strong.
-- If the gas meter is shut off, do not turn it back on until
it has been inspected by a Gas Company energy technician or
by a qualified heating and plumbing contractor.
-- Never use a barbecue grill or propane inside the home.
-- Do not heat the home with cooking appliances.
The Gas Company will be updating the media on its efforts to restore gas service as more information becomes available.
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.