INDIANAPOLIS – With wintry temperatures expected in the coming days, Citizens Energy Group is urging customers to take simple, proactive steps to protect their homes, stay warm, and remain connected to essential utility services. The Citizens natural gas and water operations teams are fully prepared to maintain reliable service and respond quickly to weather-related issues.
View the information below and find additional resources at CitizensEnergyGroup.com.
Stay Safe While Heating Your Home
- Keep space heaters at least three feet away from flammable materials such as furniture or draperies.
- Never use fuel‑burning space heaters indoors; they produce deadly carbon monoxide.
- Install a working smoke alarm on every level of the home and at least one carbon monoxide alarm. Test batteries monthly.
- Never use a natural gas oven for home heating.
Prevent Frozen Pipes
- Run a thin stream of water from faucets when temperatures drop below freezing.
- Insulate pipes exposed to cold air and open cabinet doors below sinks to help warm air circulate.
- Ensure the water meter pit lid is tightly secured.
- If your meter is indoors, make sure the basement is heated and windows are intact.
- Keep garage doors closed when water lines run through the space.
- Locate your home’s water shut‑off valve in case of a burst pipe.
- Common locations include the garage, basement, utility closet, or the main water line entry point.
If Your Water Stops Flowing
You may have a frozen pipe if faucets won’t run or toilets won’t refill:
- Bypass your water softener to determine whether it is restricting flow.
- Inspect exposed pipes in basements and garages.
- Frozen pipes may bulge or appear frosted.
What To Do if a Pipe Freezes
- Turn off water at the home’s shut‑off valve. (Prepare well by locating this value before temperatures drop!)
- Open the faucet connected to the frozen line to relieve pressure and promote thawing.
- Apply gradual, indirect heat—such as wrapping pipes in warm towels or using a space heater nearby. Do not apply direct heat.
- If the pipe is bulging or you cannot locate the blockage, contact a licensed plumber.
Community Safety and Emergency Readiness
A Citizens technician responds to working fires to ensure fire hydrants function properly and can make on‑site repairs when needed. Citizens proactively tests all 37,000 hydrants year‑round and repairs or replaces any that are not functioning. Crews are also prepared 24/7 to address any increase in water main breaks. Customers should report suspected water main breaks by calling 317‑924‑3311
Managing Utility Bills This Winter
Customers experiencing financial hardship may qualify for assistance through multiple programs, including:
- Energy Assistance Program (EAP)
- Winter Assistance Fund (WAF) via United Way of Central Indiana
- Warm Heart Warm Home Foundation® at Citizens Energy Group
More information is available on the Assistance webpage or by calling 317‑924‑3311.
About Citizens Energy Group
Citizens Energy Group provides safe and reliable utility services to about 900,000 people in the Indianapolis area. Citizens operates its utilities for the benefit of customers and the community.
Media Contact Information
Ben Easley
Phone: 317-519-1515
Email: media@citizensenergygroup.com