Natural Gas Safety
natural gas safety image

warning signs of a gas leak

Warning signs of a gas leak

Use your senses to identify common signs of a gas leak:

  • Rotten egg smell
  • Blowing or hissing sound
  • Dead or discolored vegetation in an otherwise green area
  • Dirt or dust blowing from a hole in the ground
  • Bubbling in wet or flooded areas
1. stop what you're doing 2. go outside immediately 3. call your utility

What should you do if you smell gas?

Gas leaks can be very dangerous. If you smell gas, stop what you are doing and leave the area immediately.

  • Don't use any electrical device that would ignite the natural gas. That includes light switches, telephones/cell phones, or garage door openers.
  • Don't try to locate the leak or shut off any gas valves to appliances.
  • Don't start vehicles.

Once you are in a safe location, call your utility company or 911. Do not re-enter until a gas company employee says it is ok.

What does gas smell like?

Many people describe the smell of natural gas as similar to that of rotten eggs. Gas in its pure state is odorless. That is why gas companies add a chemical called Mercaptan, so it can be easily identified. Mercaptan contains sulfur, which is what makes it smell like rotten eggs.