Columbia Gas of Ohio is launching a new program designed to notify customers of unplanned natural gas outages as part of the company’s broader plan to modernize its website and online billing portal.

Customers will have the opportunity to be notified by text message, email or an automated phone call about outages in their neighborhood, potentially affecting their homes or business.

Columbia Gas President Dan Creekmur said that while natural gas outages are rare, the new service will keep customers informed when they do happen.

“We invite our customers to sign up for our outage alerts,” Creekmur added.

According to a press release from Columbia Gas, the personal information will only be used for outage notifications and will not be sold to third parties.

Customers interested in signing up for outage alerts should log onto their online account and select “Manage Alerts” to add or update notifications.

Anyone who might need additional assistance can call a Columbia Gas customer service representative at (1-800)-344-4077.