Smell Gas? Act Fast!
Customers are the first line of defense when it comes to leak detection. Utilities odorize natural gas with Mercaptan — which smells similar to rotten eggs — so that it's easy to smell if there is a gas leak. If you detect a gas leak, take action immediately.
- Leave the building immediatelyand take others with you. If you are outside when you smell the gas, leave the area immediately.
- Avoid causing a spark, which might cause the gas to explode:
- Do not light a match or smoke.
- Do not turn appliances or lights on or off.
- Do not use a flashlight.
- Do not start a car.
- Do not use a telephone.
- Find a phone away from the area and call 911 or your natural gas utility. You can report leaks anonymously. Always call to report the problem. Do not assume someone else will do it.
- Follow directions from utility employees or emergency responders who are on site.