With the winter months upon us, it’s especially important to be on the lookout for gas leaks. Heaters which may not have been used recently, lines which may have been damaged in storms… they can all be the source of gas leaks. According to PG&E, an underground utility is damaged in America every eight minutes. The dangers of a gas leak could be catastrophic. Keep your home safe with all of these tips.
How to spot a natural gas leak:
1. Smell: Natural gas supply is mixed with a sulfuric “rotten egg” smell. This way, even small amounts of gas may be detected.
2. Sound: Hissing, whistling, or “roaring” coming from underground or a gas appliance may be an indication of a gas leak.
3. Sight: Though gas is invisible, its effects are not. Spraying dirt, constantly bubbling water in ponds and creeks, and vegetation which always dies in a certain spot may be an indication of escaping gas.
What to do in the event of a gas leak:
1. Alert others and move upwind from the location of the suspected leak.
2. Do not use anything that could be a source of ignition, such as vehicles, cell phones, matches, electric switches, doorbells, and garage door openers.
3. Call 911 to notify authorities, including the police and fire department.
It’s important to keep your home safe from all sorts of dangers. For more tips and tricks, call Helen today at 847.967.0022 or email [email protected].