Natural Gas is one of the safest, most reliable and environmentally-friendly fuels used today. However, gas lines can deteriorate and corrode over time causing leaks to happen.
How do you recognize a natural gas leak? Watch this short video to find out:
So, how do you recognize a natural gas leak?
Look!
Listen!
Smell!
Look for blowing dirt, bubbling water or dry spots in moist areas. You may even notice an area of dead plants surrounded by live plants.
Listen for a hissing sound near a natural gas line.
Smell and recognize the odor of natural gas. In its pure state, natural gas is colorless and odorless. A scent called mercaptan is added to give natural gas a rotten egg smell.
What should you do if you detect a natural gas leak?
Take action immediately.
In a natural gas emergency, you will need to act quickly and take the following safety steps:
Leave the area immediately and go to a safe location.
Don’t try to find the source of the leak, let a professional do that for you.
Don’t use any electricity, lighters, matches or appliances.
Don’t start your car. Even a small spark could cause a fire.
Call Trussville Gas & Water immediately at 655-3211 from a safe area. If after hours, our 24 hour emergency service will be available to take your call.
If the gas is turned off by safety crews, do not turn the gas back on yourself. Call Trussville Gas & Water to schedule the service to be reconnected.
Do not return to the area until safety personnel have indicated that it is safe to do so.
In the rare event of a natural gas leak, the safety of our customers is our primary concern.