Virginia Natural Gas urges customers to leave gas on and follow emergency guidelines Does not anticipate service interruptions due to Hanna

September 5, 2008

NORFOLK, VA – September 5, 2008 – As officials continue to track Tropical Storm Hanna, Virginia Natural Gas is preparing for any natural gas emergencies created by the storm.  Virginia Natural Gas, a subsidiary of AGL Resources (NYSE: ATG), advises customers to leave their natural gas service on, even in the event of an evacuation.  Customers should not attempt to turn gas off at their meters.
 
“While we do not anticipate service interruptions, our crews are ready to handle any emergencies created by Hanna,” said Jodi Gidley, president of Virginia Natural Gas.  “The safest action for our customers is to follow all guidelines from state and local emergency management officials.”
 
Current forecasts predict Hanna will bring tropical storm force winds to Virginia, causing coastal flooding and the possibility of tornadoes and power outages.  Residents needing information regarding Tropical Storm Hanna can call the Norfolk Office of Emergency Preparedness and Response automated citizen information line at 664-7200.  Additional information on Tropical Storm Hanna and hurricane preparedness can be found at the Virginia Department of Emergency Management Web site at www.ReadyVirginia.gov.
 
Virginia Natural Gas crews are on stand-by to respond to any emergencies. After severe weather, if there is a problem with your natural gas service, immediately report it by calling the company’s 24-hour emergency response line at 1-877-572-3342.
 
In the case of a hurricane warning, Virginia Natural Gas offers these hurricane safety tips: 
 
Hurricane preparation:  

• Virginia Natural Gas customers are advised to leave their natural gas service on, even in the event of an evacuation. Customers should not attempt to turn gas off at their meters. Most gas appliances have safety valves that shut off the flow of gas automatically if the pilot light goes out.
• Stay tuned to radio or TV for critical bulletins.
• Board up windows, garage and porch doors. Large windows should be braced inside and out. Taping windows will lessen the hazard of flying glass.
• Move valuables to upper floors if possible to avoid water damage.
• Bring in pets and loose objects such as toys, furniture and trashcans.
• Fill containers with several days supply of drinking water (including sterilized bathtub).
• Turn up refrigerator to maximize cold and don’t open unless necessary.
• Stay indoors on the downwind side of the house with a door or window on that side of the house open.
• If ordered to evacuate, quickly secure your home and leave immediately. Follow evacuation orders regardless of what the weather is at the time. It may be sunny and calm when the evacuation order comes, but this lead time is necessary to insure your safety.
• Emergency Car Kit should include:

• Battery powered radio, flashlight and extra batteries
• Blanket
• Booster cables
• Fire extinguisher (5lb A-B-C type)
• First aid kit and manual
• Bottled water and non-perishable high energy foods such as granola bars, raisins and peanut butter.
• Secure pet carriers for cats and small dogs, sturdy leashes/harnesses for larger dogs, and appropriate crates or cages for other types of pets such as reptiles, birds, etc.

No Power? No Problem!

Even when the power is out, a safe, underground delivery system means natural gas appliances will still perform, allowing for a hot shower and hot meal at home. But storm-related power outages, whether they last for a few hours or a few days, are often inconvenient and frustrating for business and home owners alike. But a natural gas generator can provide even greater peace of mind. From keeping the convenience store down the street open to keeping a family in air-conditioned comfort, a natural gas generator provides a reliable power supply during an outage.

Newer models come on automatically when electricity is interrupted and go off when it is restored; preventing gaps in the operation of major appliances, electrical and security systems. There are a wide variety of models to fit a range of needs and budgets – from emergency back-up to whole home comfort.

“Back-up generators are a critical part of most business continuity plans in our coastal climate – from gas stations and restaurants to retail stores and hospitals, they count on natural gas generators to protect inventory, preserve revenue and provide superior customer service,” said Gidley.

About Virginia Natural Gas

Virginia Natural Gas, a wholly owned subsidiary of AGL Resources (NYSE: ATG), provides retail natural gas sales and distribution services to 269,000 customers in southeast Virginia.  For more information, visit www.virginianaturalgas.com. 

About AGL ResourcesAGL Resources (NYSE: ATG), an Atlanta-based energy services company, serves more than 2.3 million customers in six states. The company also owns Houston-based Sequent Energy Management, an asset manager serving natural gas wholesale customers throughout North America. As a 70 percent owner in the SouthStar partnership, AGL Resources markets natural gas to consumers in Georgia under the Georgia Natural Gas brand. The company also owns and operates Jefferson Island Storage & Hub, a high-deliverability natural gas storage facility near the Henry Hub in Louisiana. For more information, visit www.aglresources.com.

Contact:           AGL Resources           
                        Jack Holt
                        Office: 404-584-4255
                        Cell: 404-217-0284
                        24 Hour Media Line – 1-866-757-6646 
                        jholt@aglresources.com