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Natural gas is distributed through underground pipes and service lines. If a leak occurs, gas can migrate into buildings -- even those without natural gas service.
Here are tips from Washington Gas on how to recognize and react to a possible natural gas leak:
What’s that smell?
Natural gas is non-toxic, colorless, odorless and combustible. For safety purposes, Washington Gas and other companies add a smelly odorant called mercaptan to its natural gas. With mercaptan, you’ll definitely be able to smell leaking gas.
What should you do?
If you smell natural gas, do not try to locate the source. Leave the building, and call 911 and call the utility company. Washington Gas’ Emergency Leak Line is 703-750-1400.
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If the odor is very strong or if you hear a blowing or hissing noise, leave the building immediately, leaving doors unlocked as you go. Warn other people as you exit.
What should you not do?
Don’t do anything that could ignite the source. Don’t light a match or use any type of battery-powered, electrical or motorized items.
Be sure to take the same precautions if you:
- Smell gas outside
- Hear hissing or blowing noises
- See dirt being thrown in the air
- See fire coming from the ground or appearing to burn above the ground
- See water bubbling or being blown into the air at a pond, creek or river
- See a dry spot in a moist field
- See dead or dying vegetation on or near a pipeline right-of-way
