Atmos Energy Encourages Safety as Winter Storm Approaches

LUBBOCK, TX — With extreme winter weather forecast to impact the region in the coming days, Atmos Energy says it is prepared to deliver safe and reliable natural gas service while urging customers to take precautions to stay safe and manage energy use.

Atmos Energy officials said crews are monitoring weather conditions closely and positioning technicians across the system in advance of the storm. The company said it will continue communicating with customers and communities before, during and after severe weather events through text alerts, social media and its website.

Colder temperatures typically increase natural gas use, which can lead to higher utility bills despite natural gas being less expensive than electricity, the company said. Atmos Energy encourages customers to use energy wisely and follow safety guidance throughout the winter storm.

Winter Weather Safety and Energy-Saving Tips

Atmos Energy recommends the following steps:

• Inspect natural gas piping and appliances. Customers are responsible for gas piping from the meter to their home or business and should schedule regular inspections and maintenance.

• Operate appliances properly. Always follow manufacturer instructions for operating and maintaining natural gas appliances.

• Never use an oven or gas stovetop to heat your home.

• Adjust thermostats wisely. Set thermostats to 68 degrees during the day and 58 degrees when away from home, where safe to do so.

• Limit hot water use. Showers and baths can account for up to 40% of household hot water use.

• Keep warm air inside. Close fireplace dampers when no fire is burning to prevent heat loss.

• Protect natural gas meters. Remove snow and ice using a broom or brush. Do not kick or chip ice away with hard objects.

• Keep external vents clear. Ensure dryer and appliance vents are unobstructed to prevent dangerous carbon monoxide buildup.

• Prevent frozen pipes. Leave faucets dripping, open cabinet doors and keep exterior doors and windows closed.

More winter weather tips are available on Atmos Energy’s Storm Center at atmosenergy.com.

Although outages are rare, customers experiencing loss of natural gas service or low gas pressure should contact Atmos Energy’s 24-hour emergency line at 866-322-8667.

If you smell natural gas, leave the area immediately and, from a safe location, call 911 and Atmos Energy’s emergency number.

About Atmos Energy

Atmos Energy Corporation is a natural gas-only distributor and an S&P 500 company headquartered in Dallas. The company serves more than 3 million customers across eight states, delivering reliable and affordable natural gas while investing in safety, infrastructure modernization and environmental sustainability.