Natural Gas Leaks
- Indoor leaks. Evacuate the building immediately. Shut off the gas at the appliance’s supply line—or, if you cannot identify the leaking appliance, shut off gas at the meter. When you are certain the gas is off, ventilate by opening windows from the outside only. Never ventilate while personnel are inside.
- Outdoor leaks. Evacuate the area immediately. Contact the local natural gas utility immediately to shut off the gas. Never try to operate a pipeline valve or relief vent.
- Avoid ignition hazards. Turn off radios, pagers, and cell phones, or leave them in your vehicle if possible. Avoid using doorbells, light switches, matches, and lighters. If you must use a flashlight, turn it on before approaching the area.
Recognizing Gas Leaks
There are several indicators of natural gas pipeline leaks:
- A sulfur-like odor
- A hissing sound
- Dirt spraying into the air
- Continual bubbling in a pond or creek
- Plants that seem to be dead or dying for no reason
Not all gas has been odorized, so do not attempt to detect a natural gas leak by smell alone.