Gas leak: what to do if you smell gas¶
Emergency numbers differ by country. This page uses 911, the number for the United States and Canada. Many other countries use 112, 999, or another number. Find the number for your country.
Natural gas and propane can catch fire or explode, and they can make you sick. This page tells you what to do if you smell gas, hear a hiss, or suspect a leak.
Do this now¶
- Do not use any flame, match, or lighter, and do not smoke.
- Do not turn any switch on or off, including lights and fans. Do not unplug anything.
- Do not use a phone, doorbell, or garage door opener inside.
- Get everyone out, including pets, and leave doors open as you go if you can do so without delay.
- Move well away from the building, then call your gas utility's emergency line or your local emergency number (911 in the United States and Canada, 112 across the European Union, 999 in the United Kingdom).
- Stay outside until the utility or emergency services say it is safe.
Why you leave first¶
A small spark can ignite gas. That includes static electricity and the tiny spark inside a light switch or a phone. That is why you do not touch switches or make calls inside, and why you call from a safe distance.
Do not stop to open windows or look for the source. Getting out quickly is safer.
... danger "Do not start your car in a closed garage" If the smell is in an attached garage, do not start a car or use any electrical item there. Leave on foot and call from outside.
How to recognize a leak¶
Utilities add a strong smell to gas, often described as rotten eggs or sulfur, so you can notice a leak. You may also hear a hissing sound near a pipe or appliance, or see dead plants, bubbles in standing water, or a white cloud near a gas line outside.
Some people cannot smell well, and the smell can fade. If you suspect a leak for any reason, act as if it is real. Never ignore a gas alarm, and do not wait to see if it goes away.
Who to call¶
Call from outside, once you are well clear of the building. Use the gas utility's emergency number, which is often printed on your bill or on a sticker near the meter. If you cannot reach them, or if anyone feels ill or you hear or see signs of fire, call your local emergency number.
Tell them your address, what you smelled or heard, and whether anyone is feeling sick. Stay on the line if they ask you to.
The shutoff valve¶
Do not try to shut off the gas unless the utility has trained you or told you to. If they do, they will say where the valve is and how to turn it a quarter turn, so the handle sits across the pipe. Never try to turn it back on. A technician must do that, after checking for leaks.
Some homes use propane tanks. For these, the tank valve is turned clockwise to close, and the supplier should advise you. If you are not sure, leave and call.
Symptoms of gas exposure¶
Breathing a lot of gas can cause headache, dizziness, nausea, tiredness, and trouble breathing. People can also be hurt by carbon monoxide if a gas appliance is faulty. Anyone with symptoms should move to fresh air and get medical help.
See carbon monoxide for what to do if an alarm sounds.
After the leak¶
Do not go back inside until the utility says it is safe. They will check the pipes and appliances and find the cause. Do not light pilot lights or restart appliances yourself.
Have a licensed gas technician repair anything that is damaged. Gas work beyond the shutoff is for professionals.
After a disaster¶
After an earthquake, flood, or storm, gas lines can break. If you smell gas, leave the same way. Avoid using a car, candle, or flashlight with a switch near the leak until you are well away.
Prevent leaks¶
- Have gas appliances serviced as the maker advises.
- Learn the smell of gas, and teach children.
- Never store flammable items near a heater or stove.
- Install a CO alarm, and a gas alarm if your area recommends one.
- Know where your meter is, and keep the area clear.
- Tell everyone in your home what to do.
Local rules and utility names differ by country. Check your gas company's website or bill for its emergency number.
In the United States¶
Many gas utilities ask you to call them first, at the emergency number on your bill. If you cannot reach them, call your local emergency number (911 in the United States).