(May 1, 2011) - A flood warning has been issued by the Shelby County Office of Preparedness due to heavy rain causing the Mississippi, rivers and creeks to rise.

When or if MLGW customers are forced to evacuate their homes, they need to close the gas values on their natural gas appliances to prevent water infiltration into their fuel lines.

"Before evacuating, customers need to turn off the gas service at the meter and then close the appliance valves once the pilot goes out," according to Brent E. Haywood, manager of Engineering and Operations for the Gas division.

Gas service can be turned off at the main gas service shutoff valve normally located near your gas meter. Using a 12 to 15 inch adjustable pipe or crescent-type wrench or other suitable tool, give the valve a quarter turn in either direction; the valve is closed when the tang (the part you put the wrench on) is crosswise to the pipe. (How to Shut Off Utilities)

Most gas appliances have a shutoff valve located near the appliance that lets you turn off the gas to that appliance only.

Additional critical utility flood safety tips:

If your home or business is experiencing flooding, call MLGW's Customer Care Center at 544-MLGW (6549) or 820-7878 so we can disconnect your utility services if necessary. You can then enter quick access codes 1-1-1 (English) or 3-1-1 (Spanish) for faster service.

Stay away from anything electrical that may be in contact with water and always assume that it’s energized.

You should never attempt to operate breakers or switches that are wet or under water, even if it’s just to turn them off.

Never attempt to disconnect or remove your electric meter; call MLGW to have this done.

Shut the water off if you have a shut-off valve inside your home. Do not shut the water off at the street.

If you are using a portable generator, make sure it does not come into contact with water.

If you do experience water damage to your home’s electrical system or appliances, you will need to have them inspected by a qualified, licensed professional.

MLGW Prepares for Effects of Flooding

MLGW has been working closely with the EMA, City of Memphis, Corps of Engineers and other entities to plan for the possible flooding.

None of the MLGW electric substations are expected to be affected.

MLGW water pumping stations are not threatened by the possible flood -- they all sit above the potential flood area.

We do have some wells that could be affected, but in the event that happens, MLGW will simply shut them down and utilize other wells to supply our customers without interruption.

MLGW's natural gas services are not expected to be affected by the flooding.

MLGW is staying in contact with a number of its industrial customers in the event they need assistance with de-energizing if they are affected by the flood.