Gas Leak Safety: What to Do Immediately

IMPORTANT: Gas Smell Safety

If you smell gas strongly, leave the area immediately and call your gas company or 911 from outside the home.

Understanding Gas Odors

Natural gas is odorless, but utility companies add mercaptan (which smells like rotten eggs) to make leaks detectable. Any gas smell near your range should be investigated.

Immediate Actions

1. Do NOT turn on/off any electrical switches or appliances
2. Do NOT use phones inside the area
3. Do NOT light matches or create any sparks
4. Open windows if you can do so quickly and safely
5. Turn off the gas supply at the shutoff valve if accessible
6. Leave the area and call for help from outside

Possible Causes of Minor Gas Odors

If the smell is faint and only present briefly when lighting burners:

• Normal brief odor when igniting burner
• Dirty burner ports
• Pilot light issues (older ranges)
• Burner not fully igniting

When It's Definitely a Leak

• Smell persists when range is off
• Strong odor at any time
• Hissing sound near gas connections
• Dead plants near gas line

After Professional Inspection

Only use your range again after a qualified technician has inspected it and confirmed it's safe. Gas leaks can be fatal - never take chances.