Press Releases

Hurricane Preparation, Recovery, and Safety Tips For Heating Oil Consumers

Washington D.C., August 24, 2011 With the threat of Hurricane Irene hitting the Northeast coast this weekend, the Energy Communications Council (ECC) reminds heating oil consumers about the importance of disaster preparation and safety tips to follow before, during and after a storm or flood.

Because water can damage your heating system, the right preparation for possible flooding can significantly help protect your family, your property, your business, and your heating equipment. ECC encourages homeowners and businesses relying on heating oil to remember the following tips:

Preparation before a flood

• If you must evacuate, turn off the heating oil supply valve at the tank before flood waters rise.
• If you must evacuate, turn off furnace or boiler emergency switch.
• Properly installed heating oil tanks are bolted to the ground/floor to ensure they will not move during a flood.

After a flood

• If oilheat equipment has been flooded, be sure to shut off the tank service valve if you did not do so before evacuating.
• Look for any visible structural damage. If the tank has shifted, lines are bent or damaged, or you notice anything else unusual, contact your heating oil retailer immediately.
• Damage to pumps, filters, and electronic controls is a significant problem caused by flooding. Heating oil appliances and equipment that have been underwater should be inspected by your professional retailer before being placed back into service.

For more information regarding safety tips, contact your local heating oil dealer, your state or regional heating oil association, or visit www.oilheatamerica.com.