CenterPoint Energy reminds natural gas users in Minnesota that snow, and ice created by thawing and freezing conditions, can create unsafe situations with exterior natural gas meters. Snow and ice accumulation on or near a meter can damage it or affect its operation by blocking the regulator vent, potentially causing a dangerous build-up of natural gas.

  Tips to help ensure safe meter operation:
   * Keep the meter area and its pathway clear of snow, leaves and other
     debris. Remove snow from the meter by hand. Do not use a snow blower
     near the meter.
   * Do not attempt to remove ice from the meter.
   * Call CenterPoint Energy at (612) 321-5200 or 1-800-722-9326 if you
     observe any of the following conditions:
       Snow or ice formations located above the meter.
       The meter is located below a downspout.
       The overhang or eaves do not fully extend over the meter.
       The meter is located below a roof valley without a gutter.
       The meter is located below an exterior water spigot.

  If you smell natural gas, take the following steps:
   * Leave immediately! Do not return until given permission by utility or
     emergency officials. Do not use electric switches, phones or anything
     that can cause a spark.
   * Go to a safe location and call CenterPoint Energy - Emergency at
     (612) 372-5050 or 1-800-722-9326, and then call 911.
   * Alert your neighbors.
   * Leave all repairs to trained professionals. Do not try to repair the
     leak yourself.

CenterPoint Energy, Inc. , headquartered in Houston, Texas, is a domestic energy delivery company that includes electric transmission & distribution, natural gas distribution, competitive natural gas sales and services, and pipeline and field services operations. The company serves more than five million metered customers primarily in Arkansas, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Texas. Assets total approximately $17 billion. With about 9,000 employees, CenterPoint Energy and its predecessor companies have been in business for more than 130 years. In Minnesota, CenterPoint Energy is the state's largest natural gas distribution company, serving more than 778,000 residential, commercial and industrial customers in 259 communities. Home Service Plus(R), the company's non-regulated business in Minnesota, offers products and services in the categories of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) and appliance repair, and HVAC and hearth equipment sales. For more information, visit the Web site at http://www.centerpointenergy.com/ .

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SOURCE: CenterPoint Energy, Inc.