Natural Gas Safety

Natural gas utilities are extremely proud of their capacity to safely distribute natural gas to more than 5 million customers in the United States. Natural gas utilities and the general public, all contribute to the security of their communities.

While uncommon, gas leaks can cause explosions and fires. It’s critical that everyone is aware of the signs of a gas leak and what to do if one is detected.

Smell of Rotten Eggs.

Since natural gas has no smell, your natural gas supplier gives the gas a harmless, non-toxic odorant called Mercaptan. To swiftly detect the presence of natural gas in the air.

The scent of Mercaptan is unmistakable, resembling rotten eggs or sulfur. All natural gas utilities are obligated to odorize natural gas as a critical safety element.

Natural gas may also be detectable by sight or sound. Natural gas may be the source of hissing or roaring noises, blowing soil, bubbling water, or dead vegetation and withering plants.

If you have a poor sense of smell, a gas leak detector can provide you with peace of mind and keep you and your neighbors safe by sounding an alarm before natural gas enters the explosive range. Many hardware and home improvement stores, as well as online, carry gas leak detectors.

How to Respond if You Think There’s a Natural Gas Leak.

• STOP
  • Do you have a gas leak or the stench of rotting eggs? Don’t use any appliances or gadgets, such as your phone or flashlight, or fire a match, smoke, start your automobile, or touch a light switch.
• LEAVE
  • Leave immediately and take others with you.
  • If the leak is outside, leave the area quickly.
• CALL
  • To call 911 and your natural gas utility, find a phone beyond the immediate vicinity.
  • Observe the instructions given by your utility or emergency personnel.