CenterPoint Energy shares safety and energy-saving tips ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday
As families prepare for Thanksgiving celebrations, CenterPoint Energy reminds customers to stay safe and save energy during the holiday season.
From whipping up holiday favorites to carving out energy savings, these tips support safe and enjoyable holiday gatherings for everyone:
Natural gas safety tips
- Smell gas? Natural gas has a distinctive rotten egg smell. If anyone detects this odor, they should leave their location immediately without using electrical switches or phones. Once in a safe location, call 911 and CenterPoint Energy.
- Move items away from open flames: Keep flammable items like paper towels and boxes away from open flames or stovetops to reduce fire risks.
- Check appliances: Schedule routine maintenance with a qualified professional to confirm appliances such as furnaces, stoves and water heaters function properly and operate safely.
- Test carbon monoxide (CO) and smoke alarms: Change batteries regularly. Alarms don’t last forever, so replace them according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Electric safety tips
- Be mindful of kitchen appliance use: Use heavy-duty extension cords if additional power is needed for appliances and never connect multiple high-energy devices to a single outlet.
- Inspect holiday lighting: If decorating for the holidays, check string lights for frayed wires or broken bulbs before use. Only use lights certified for indoor or outdoor use as appropriate.
- Use appliances safely: Avoid placing cords or small appliances near water sources, such as sinks or faucets, to prevent electrical shock.
Energy efficiency tips
- Cook smart: Limit opening the oven door while in use and choose the burner size that best matches the size of pans. Use smaller appliances like toaster ovens or slow cookers for side dishes to save energy.
- Turn down the thermostat: The heat from the oven and the presence of guests can help keep homes warm, so consider lowering the thermostat by a few degrees.
- Unplug devices: Reduce idle energy consumption by unplugging chargers and appliances that aren’t being used.
Those customers experiencing financial hardship are encouraged to contact CenterPoint for bill payment and assistance options. The company has a variety of tips, tools and programs to help customers manage their bills. To learn more, visit CenterPointEnergy.com/PaymentAssistance.
