Quick Start Guide Natural Gas Utilities

SECTION 03: KEY SAFETY MESSAGES

Who: Key Audiences & Languages Your customers are the target audience for this topic. Also consider targeting trade professionals who have access to natural gas appliances, and emergency responders. Consumers • New and existing customers • Males and females 18 years and older • Parents or caregivers of school-age children • School-age children

Trade Professionals • Utility company service technicians • Plumbing contractors • Heating/cooling contractors • Appliance installers

What: Core Messages The core message is the most important point or essential idea to be understood and remembered by the target audience. For this topic, the message is: Disasters can occur anytime and anywhere. You can protect your family and property by being aware of the hazards and preparing for them, as well as by learning what to do after a disaster to minimize risks and damage. • Prepare and practice a disaster plan for your family. • Make sure natural gas appliances are secured to wall studs or bolted to the floor as appropriate in earthquake-prone areas. • Natural gas appliances or appliance connectors should be inspected and if necessary repaired only by a qualified technician. This message should be supported with the following safety tips:

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Developing a Public Safety Communications Program