2008-08-18 23:34:07 -

- As TECO Peoples Gas officials continue to track Tropical Storm Fay, the company is prepared for any natural gas emergencies created by the storm or its aftermath. Should the storm hit Florida, Peoples Gas advises customers to leave their natural gas service on, even in the event of an evacuation. Customers should not attempt to turn gas off at

their meters.

"The best and safest action for our customers is to follow emergency guidelines issued by the State Emergency Response Team or local emergency management officials," said Bruce Narzissenfeld, vice president of operations, at TECO Peoples Gas. "Our crews are standing by to handle any emergencies created by Fay."

There is the possibility that for safety reasons, Peoples Gas might need to turn off a customer's service at the meter. If customers find their gas service has been shut off, they will need to call the Peoples Gas Customer Care Center at 1-877 TECO PGS (1-877-832-6747, select option 3) to have service restored.

If at any time residents smell a rotten egg or sulfur-like odor, there could be a natural gas leak. Residents should leave the premises immediately and then call the Peoples Gas 24-hour Emergency Gas Leak number: 1-877-832-6747, select option 1.

Customers who suspect their natural gas appliances have been flooded or damaged due to the storm should have the equipment inspected and serviced by a qualified Gas Advantage Dealer.

State of Florida Provides Emergency Management Guidance for Residents

The Florida Emergency Information Line has been activated. Residents needing information regarding Tropical Storm Fay can call for information toll-free at 1-800-342-3557 between 8 a.m. and midnight Eastern Time. Additional information on Tropical Storm Fay and the State Emergency Response Team, can be found at the Florida Division of Emergency Management Web site at www.FloridaDisaster.org.

Other helpful hints in the event of an evacuation:

-- Before evacuating, please first review the evacuation route information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management Web site (www.FloridaDisaster.org). Roads may be closed to facilitate better traffic flow.

-- Have a functioning battery powered radio to monitor emergency information.

-- Make plans for pets as they are extremely vulnerable and are not allowed at most shelters.

For more information visit www.peoplesgas.com.

TECO Peoples Gas, Tampa
Lance Horton, Office: 813-228-4561, Cell: 813-267-0601
Lhorton@tecoenergy.com