National Grid offers tips for use during storms and while natural gas service is being restored:

• If you smell natural gas, contact us as soon as possible:

o Brooklyn, Queens and Staten Island: 718-643-4050

o On Long Island and the Rockaways: 1-800-490-0045

• If you do not smell natural gas but have no gas service:

o Brooklyn, Queens and Staten Island: 718-643-4050

o On Long Island and the Rockaways: 1-800-930-5003

• Do not turn off the gas meter even in the event of an evacuation. The gas meter should be left on to maintain proper pressure in the gas piping within the house and to prevent water from entering the lines should flooding occur. Most gas appliances have safety valves that shut off the flow of gas automatically if the pilot light goes out.

• Stay out of flooded basements or standing water as utility services below the water line may pose a hazard.

• If your appliances have been in contact with water, please contact a licensed plumbing or heating contractor to make sure the appliances are safe to operate.

• If we have shut your gas service off for safety reasons, please contact a licensed plumbing or heating contractor before contacting National Grid. The licensed plumbing or heating contractor will make sure that your service is safe to restore.

• Don’t forget to check outdoor appliances, such as pool heaters and gas grills.

• Customers also can stay in touch with National Grid by following the company on Facebook, Twitter and on our website www.nationalgridus.com.

• Check on elderly family members, neighbors and others who may need assistance during an outage period.