CALL BEFORE YOU DIG! (979)245-2311 or the new National  toll free 811.

Newly enacted Texas Railroad Commission rules state that ALL damage to underground pipelines must be reported IMMEDIATELY to both the OPERATOR (Bay City Gas) and the Texas Railroad Commission online (see Texas Administrative Code, Title 16, CHAPTER 18 "Underground Pipeline Damage Prevention" Rule)

SO,  CALL BEFORE YOU DIG! (979)245-2311 or the new national 811.

For Your Safety:
If you detect a STRONG SMELL OF GAS in your home or business, LEAVE IMMEDIATELY and call (979)245-2311. DO NOT OPERATE ANY SWITCHES (APPLIANCES, LIGHTS, ETC) OR YOUR TELEPHONE. Use a neighbor’s phone or cell phone after you have left the premises to call us at (979)245-2311. We have Technicians Available 24 Hours Per Day, 365 Days Per Year to Respond Immediately to Suspected Leaks.

Service Lines - the line from your meter into your residence or business is owned by YOU, and you are responsible for periodically testing it for leaks. Any licensed plumber can perform this task. Please partner with us in maintaining a safe, leak-free system by periodically having your service line tested.

Excess Flow Valves - in compliance with State and Federal requirements, we offer the installation of Excess Flow Valves. These valves are designed to stop the gas flow should the service line to your residence or meter loop be severely damaged. Our lines are rugged, flexible and buried, but these valves do offer another layer of protection. These valves are installed and maintained at customer expense. If you would like additional information, please contact our office at 245-2327.

REMEMBER - keep combustible sources, such as gasoline cans, lawnmowers, edgers, chain saws, paint thinners, etc. AWAY FROM YOUR GAS WATER HEATER or other gas appliances

Safety Facts:
Natural gas is odorless, but a chemical (mercaptan) is added to give the gas a distinct “rotten eggs” smell so that it can be detected. This odor serves to warn that natural gas is present.
Natural gas is non-toxic. However, it does displace oxygen and can create an oxygen deficient environment unless properly ventilated.
Natural gas is an extremely clean burning fuel provided there is enough oxygen present to complete the combustion process. Otherwise, carbon monoxide* can be produced which is poisonous. Make sure vents for all gas appliances are kept clean and clear away clutter which may interfere with proper air flow.
Natural gas appliances should function with a blue (not yellow) flame to indicate proper functioning.
Natural gas is supplied to your home or business through buried pipelines. Bay City Gas Company is responsible for upkeep and repairs on lines up to your meter; the customer is responsible for the line from the meter into the residence or business. This line from your meter into your residence should be periodically pressure tested. A licensed plumber or the service technicians at Bay City Gas can perform this test for you (see Fee Schedule).

*CARBON MONOXIDE is odorless, colorless gas formed from incomplete combustion of fuels including natural gas. Symptoms of exposure to carbon monoxide are headaches, nausea, dizziness and fatigue. Keep your natural gas appliances in good working order and well ventilated. Have them inspected annually by a trained technician.
*Carbon monoxide detectors are available FREE to senior citizens during the winter heating season (while supply lasts). Carbon monoxide alarms can be purchased at local hardware stores for about $20 (or a combination carbon monoxide / smoke alarm for around $40).

Hurricane Information:
Underground natural gas distribution systems are extremely reliable and not normally affected by severe weather. Your gas service will remain completely reliable in all but the most severe natural disasters.

Here are answers to some commonly asked questions:

• DO I NEED TO TURN OFF MY GAS IF A STORM IS APPROACHING?

• The natural gas system is almost entirely underground and not in immediate danger from hurricanes or tropical storms. It is not recommended that you turn the gas off.

• DO I NEED TO TURN OFF MY GAS IF I EVACUATE?

• If you are going to leave your home we do not recommend that you turn your gas off; however, if you do choose to turn off your gas, PLEASE be aware that it may be a day or more after the storm passes before a service technician will be available to turn your gas service back on

• WILL I STILL HAVE GAS SERVICE IF WE LOSE ELECTRIC POWER?

• The natural gas system continues to function and deliver gas even during electric power outages

• WILL MY GAS APPLIANCES STILL WORK IF I LOSE ELECTRIC POWER?

• If your appliances operate with a pilot light (typically your gas water heater), yes they will continue to operate;

• If your appliances are 'pilotless (electronic ignition), they will probably not work. Tankless gas water heaters, electronic ignition stoves and ovens, and of course clothes dryers will not work without electricity

• WHAT IF MY HOUSE SUSTAINS DAMAGE?

• If your home is damaged during the storm, check imediately for signs of a gas leak (gas odor, hissing sound) and call Bay City Gas at 245-2311. This phone number, 245-2311, is answered 24 hours per day 365 days per year, and leak calls receive PRIORITY. After checking for gas leaks,  it is a good idea to have the gas turned off at the meter while you assess the damages. Any shifting of the gas meter, appliances or their associated piping can result in a leak. If you suspect any such damage, call Bay City Gas to have the gas turned off at the meter and then call a plumber.

• If you have questions or concerns, please call us at (979) 245-2327.

SEE YOUR MONTHLY BILL FOR IMPORTANT SEASONAL SAFETY REMINDERS!