Overnight Warming Center Open Friday Night for South Arlington Neighborhood Affected by Low Natural Gas Pressure

By Susan Schrock, Office of Communication

Posted on December 23, 2022, December 23, 2022

Editor's Note: The temporary warming center at The Beacon Recreation Center, which served two residents overnight on Friday, Dec. 23, was closed the morning of Saturday, Dec. 24 after natural gas service was restored to the affected south Arlington neighborhood.

The City of Arlington has opened The Beacon Recreation Center as a temporary overnight warming center in response to a south Arlington neighborhood being without adequate natural gas pressure to heat their homes and run necessary appliances during the freezing temperatures.

Numerous homes in the Deer Valley Lane Community and surrounding area began experiencing low natural gas pressure Thursday evening, according to Atmos Energy. Though the energy company’s crews have restored service to most homes there, there is the potential that some homes in this neighborhood may be without natural gas service throughout the night. Until the City knows when Atmos can complete the service restoration, The Beacon Recreation Center at 1100 Mansfield Webb Road is available as a warming center.

 Currently Atmos is reporting improved gas pressure in the area and the possible return of service for many residents.

 This temporary warming center, which will have cots available, is intended for Deer Valley Lane Community residents who are experiencing a disruption to their energy service. The City has a longtime partnership with nonprofit agencies, including the Arlington Life Shelter and the Salvation Army, to provide shelter and services for the homeless community.

 Atmos Energy Conservation Tips

•  Due to extreme temperatures and high natural gas usage, Atmos Energy is urging customers to conserve natural gas usage during these extreme winter temperatures to help maintain gas service.
•  During this time of extreme colder temperatures, please follow these energy conservation measures:
•  Do not use your natural gas fireplace.
•  Lower your thermostat to at least 68 degrees. Consider wearing additional layers of clothing and turning down the thermostat even lower.
•  Businesses should minimize energy usage as much as possible.
•  Lower the water heater temperature to 120 degrees, because it can account for as much as 25 percent of the energy consumed in your home.
•  Unplug electronic devices and turn off lights that are not in use. By conserving electricity, you are also helping to conserve natural gas which keeps the power on.
•  Reduce shower time and avoid baths. Showering accounts for about 40 percent of your home’s hot water use.
•  Refrain from using large appliances like your washer, dryer, oven, and dishwasher for the next few days. When in use, limit opening the oven door to prevent wasted energy.
•  If you have a pool, do not use the pool heater. Instead, run your pool pump during the coldest part of the day to circulate the water and prevent freezing.

Atmos Energy also reminds everyone that if you smell natural gas or suspect a leak, to leave the area immediately and from a safe distance call 911 and the Atmos Energy emergency number at 866-322-8667.