Black Hills Energy interrupts service to Cascade

As a safety precaution and in coordination with local, state and federal authorities, Black Hills Energy – Colorado Gas announced that natural gas service to evacuated customers in Cascade, Colo., has been interrupted in response to the Waldo Canyon wildfire burning near Colorado Springs. Restoration efforts will begin as soon as local authorities deem the area safe for residents to return to their homes.

“While we regret any inconvenience or potential disruption caused by this interruption of service, maintaining the safety of our customers is our highest priority,” said Susan Bailey, general manager for Black Hills Energy – Colorado Gas. “Our dedicated employees have been working tirelessly at the scene since the fire erupted on Saturday. Right now, service has been interrupted for Black Hills Energy customers in Cascade; however we continue to work closely with local authorities to safely manage natural gas service to all of our customers residing near the Waldo Canyon wildfire.”

After authorities deem it safe, Black Hills Energy technicians will go door to door and restore service, which typically involves turning meters back on and relighting pilot lights on natural gas equipment and appliances. Someone at least 18 years old must be present to provide Black Hills Energy technicians access. If no one is available, a door hanger will be left directing the customer to call Black Hills Energy to arrange for a return visit. The 24-hour customer service number is 888-890-5554.

“We will continue to work closely with local and state officials, keeping them apprised of our efforts and will begin restoration efforts as soon as it is safe to do so,” Bailey said.

A separate emergency number is available to customers who think they smell the rotten egg odor of a natural gas leak. If you think you smell natural gas indoors, leave immediately. Don’t use a phone, open or close any doors or windows, or flip any electrical switches on the way out. Doing so could cause static electricity to ignite leaking gas. Once outside, use a cell phone or a neighbor’s phone to call the 24/7 Black Hills Energy emergency number, 800-694-8989.