Natural Gas Leaks
The use of natural gas in the home can do many things to improve lifestyle and create a pleasant home environment. It is one of safest and cleanest fuels available for home and water heating, cooking and clothes drying. If the Gas Home Heating Systems are energy efficient, cleaned and checked on a yearly basis and a Homeowners Furnace Check-up is periodically done, then the flame will burn blue and will be clean burning.
Natural gas systems and appliances must, however, be maintained and used in a safe and wise manner to prevent accidental Carbon Monoxide Poisoning, breakdowns and/or gas leaks that can cause fires and/or explosions. To use natural gas safely and wisely:
- Always use common sense.
- Know the dangers of improper use.
- Know what to do; and be prepared in case of an emergency.
Natural Gas Leaks
Natural gas has an odorant added to it at the local gas gate station so that is has a distinct, pungent odor for ease in detection. Leaking gas can cause an explosion and/or fire, so if there is a weak smell of natural gas detected:
- Open the windows and doors– natural gas is lighter than air so it will quickly ventilate.
- Check for an extinguished pilot light – if it is out, wait for the gas odor to dissipate before re-lighting any pilot light.
- Check to see if the range’s burner has been left in an on position – then simply turn it off and follow the safety rules until the odor has dissipated.
- If the source of the odor cannot be detected:
- Immediately...get everyone out of the house.
- Do not use a lighter or matches.
- Do not turn any electrical switches or lights to the on or off position.
- Call the local Gas Company from a neighbor’s house; or use a cell phone when safely outside of the home.
Note: If a strong odor of natural gas is detected do not follow the above instructions. Instead...
- Open the windows and doors
- Immediately get everyone out of the house
- Do not use the telephone, lighter or matches or turn any electrical switches or lights to the on or off position.
- Go to a neighbor’s house; or use a cellular phone when safely outside of the house; and call the local Gas Company.
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| Turning Off the Gas Meter |
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