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With winter weather prompting families to turn on the heat and seal their homes, Ameren Missouri reminds customers they should take immediate action if they smell natural gas or suspect a leak. Residents should leave their homes immediately and call Ameren Missouri at 1.800.552.7583 if they smell the distinctive rotten-egg odor of natural gas.

"Customers should always act if they smell natural gas in or around their homes," said Mike Holman, Ameren Missouri’s director of gas operations. "We strongly urge our customers to play it safe and alert us if they suspect a problem."

Used properly, natural gas is a safe and reliable source of energy. But it's important to be vigilant about reporting suspected leaks. Ameren Missouri crews respond without charge to gas leak calls 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Below are safety tips to prevent some of the appliance and ventilation problems that may cause gas to leak or accumulate.

• Follow manufacturer directions or manuals for using and caring for gas appliances. Seek professional help when necessary.
   

• Have a fire extinguisher near any gas appliance. Use a carbon dioxide or a dry-chemical extinguisher for gas kitchen appliances.
   

• Keep a gas range pilot light lit. If it's extinguished to save energy, gas may build up if someone accidentally turns on a burner.
   

• Look for a certification seal when purchasing a new gas appliance to ensure the equipment design meets strict safety standards.
   

• Never use a gas range to heat a home or apartment. Misuse can boost the small amount of carbon monoxide that such gas appliances naturally emit, raising the potential risk of inhaling high levels of the colorless, odorless gas.
   

• Make certain that chimneys, flues and vents for all natural gas appliances are kept clear of snow and ice. Blockages can cause unsafe carbon monoxide build-ups in just a matter of hours.
   

• Routinely service a gas fireplace to ensure it's in proper working order. Have a professional:

- Adjust the fireplace ignition system.
- Clean and adjust the glowing embers and logs for best appearance.
- Clean the fan and related air circulation passages.
- Clean the glass.
- Check the batteries in the carbon monoxide detector.
- Ensure vents are unobstructed.

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Ameren Missouri has been providing electric and gas service for more than 100 years, and the company's electric rates are among the lowest in the nation. Ameren Missouri's mission is to power the quality of life for its 1.2 million electric and 127,000 natural gas customers in central and eastern Missouri. The company's service area covers 64 counties and more than 500 communities including the greater St. Louis area. For more information please visit AmerenMissouri.com or follow Ameren Missouri on Facebook or Twitter.