Tips to Stay Warm and Safe During Winter Storm Kingston

Feb. 19, 2025

Winter Storm Kingston brought frigid temperatures, ice and snow across Oklahoma the week of Feb. 16. With below-freezing temperatures expected to continue for the next few days, we’re updating you on the current situation and providing tips to stay warm and safe.

Over the last several years, we’ve upgraded our pipelines and expanded our supply sources to help prepare for extreme cold weather. Our system continues to operate well, providing reliable natural gas service. If you experience service issues, please call us at 800-458-4251.

When temperatures are extremely cold there are several things you can do to stay warm, help reduce energy use and control your monthly bill, and remain safe.

The steps below can help reduce energy use and control winter bills:

  • Keep warm, not hot - Wear additional layers of clothing when possible, consider turning down your thermostat and check your programmable settings. 
  • If possible, hold off on chores that involve using natural gas appliances, like clothes dryers, until temperatures rebound. Feel free to continue using your fireplace to stay warm!
  • Set the temperature on your water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Apply weather-stripping and caulk to seal gaps and cracks around doors and windows.
  • Close blinds and curtains to keep warm air inside, especially if the sun is not shining. When the sun is shining, open drapes on the south-side windows to take advantage of free heat from the sun.
  • Change or clean the filters on heating units.
  • Install inexpensive foam gaskets to seal outlets and electrical switches.

 

Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind:

  • Even though your natural gas range and stove are operational even during electrical outages, do not use these appliances to heat your home.
  • The accumulation of snow and ice increases the potential for damage to natural gas meters, regulators and other above-ground pipeline facilities. Keep exhaust and combustion air vents of natural gas appliances clear of snow and ice to maintain smooth operation and prevent carbon monoxide from entering homes and other structures. 
  • Extreme care should be taken when removing ice or snow from meters and vents. When clearing your vents or meter, use a broom or brush instead of a hard object to avoid causing damage. Never kick or try to chip ice off a natural gas meter. Never stand or climb on unsafe ground or surfaces.

 

If you smell natural gas:

  • Leave the area immediately.
  • Do not use electrical equipment.
  • Call 911 and Oklahoma Natural Gas at 800-458-4251.

 

If you're having difficulty paying your utility bill, visit oklahomanaturalgas.com/cares to learn about available resources, as we’re here to help in times of financial hardship. You can also apply for aid through our Share The Warmth program, which provides energy assistance to those who cannot pay their home heating expenses.

For updates during the weather system, follow us on Facebook and X. 

Stay warm and be safe!