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January 12, 2003
Naperville, Ill. - Nicor Gas has begun to restore service today to some of the 1,200 customers in Wilmette and Evanston impacted by disruption of their natural gas service due to a significant water main break that occurred in Wilmette sometime Friday. The gas company faces its third day of implementing multiple solutions to deal with one of the worst situations in the company's history.
"Hour by hour, we are implementing solutions to the problem," said Rocco D'Alessandro, senior vice president of operations for Nicor Gas. "Basically, we have multiple plans in place and each is proceeding on a slightly different timetable today."
"The question is not a matter of resources," he continued. "We have more than 300 workers on site and have received generous help from Peoples Energy, Northern Pipeline Construction, C&M Pipeline, Tradewinds and other contractors in terms of providing equipment and expertise as well as manpower. It is simply a matter of dealing with the aftermath of the water and the tremendous damage it has done."
As the day progresses, the company is hopeful that it will begin to see more positive results, but is preparing customers for the worst, meaning that many of them may not get their natural gas service restored tonight.
Nicor Gas is providing customers with portable electric heaters and arranging for those who cannot stay in their homes or with family or friends. Customers are urged to call Nicor's 24-hour Call Center where representatives are standing by at 1 888 NICOR4U (1 888 642-6748).
In one portion of Wilmette, Nicor Gas has determined that the system was damaged so badly that it is being replaced entirely. In other areas, particularly in Evanston, the system has been divided into two sections and is currently being tested to determine whether service can safely be restored today.
"Every homeowner knows the damage that water can do. Unfortunately this damage affects 1,200 of our valued customers. We genuinely appreciate the patience and understanding our customers have demonstrated this weekend. We know that on Monday morning most people have to return to work and get the kids to school, so naturally the frustration is going to mount. We pledge to help in every way possible. We will continue 24-hour, fully-staffed operations until we get the problem solved," D'Alessandro added.
Nicor Urges Caution Over Freezing Pipes, Security
Residents are reminded that the cold weather can cause frozen water pipes. Therefore, they are urged to open their faucets to let the water drip.
Also, in circumstances like this, security can become an issue. Nicor reminds customers that only qualified workers are allowed access to their home. These workers include Nicor Gas, Peoples Energy, Tradewinds/Nicor Services and of course local police and fire workers, who will all carry proper identification. If residents have any concerns, they should contact Nicor or their local police department.
Nicor also asks that residents reach out to their neighbors and particularly to call on elderly neighbors to see if they have any needs.
Nicor Gas is one of the nation's largest gas distribution companies. Owned by Nicor, Inc. (NYSE: GAS) a holding company, Nicor Gas has provided safe, reliable natural gas services for more than 45 years. The Company serves two million customers in a service territory that encompasses most of the northern third of Illinois, excluding the city of Chicago. For more information, visit the Nicor Web site at www.nicor.com.
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