Smell Gas? Move fast.
Raw natural gas is colorless and odorless. As a safety precaution, your natural gas provider adds a harmless odorant to the natural gas to give it the unmistakable rotten egg scent. Because natural gas is lighter than air, it will rise and disperse if allowed to vent freely.
Although natural gas leaks are uncommon, they can be hazardous, resulting in fire, explosions, or damage. If you suspect a leak, contact your natural gas provider immediately.
Signs of a Leak
- Smell the odor of rotten eggs.
- Hear hissing, roaring, or whistling sounds near a gas appliance, meter, or pipeline.
- See dead or dying vegetation in a green environment, as well as blowing dirt or bubbling water in a puddle, river, pond, or stream.
How to Stay Safe During a Gas Leak
- Immediately leave the area and evacuate everyone from the house or structure.
- Call your local natural gas provider from a safe location.
- Call 911 if gas lines or equipment are severed, resulting in blown gas.
- Don’t bother to check for leaks or open windows.
- Avoid using anything that could cause a spark, such as a cell phone, light switch, or garage door opener. These can cause gases or vapors to ignite.
