Gas Safety

For safety, natural gas is injected with a distinct odor – often compared to the smell of rotten eggs – which immediately alerts you to the presence of gas. Usually you can smell this odor long before the level of gas becomes hazardous. If you ever suspect a gas leak or smell gas in your home, leave the area immediately, go to a neighbor’s or nearby phone and call the gas company.

• Don't operate a flashlight.
• Don't use a telephone at the site.
• Don't turn electrical switches on or off.
• Don't strike a match.

Natural gas is an excellent choice for water heating. But if allowed to get too hot, that water can scald you or your family, causing serious injuries – especially if young children are able to reach hot water faucets. Always set your water heater to the manufacturer's specifications, usually 110 to 120 degrees.

Home appliances make our lives more comfortable, but to keep your family safe, appliances must be properly installed and maintained.

Gas appliances that are not getting a sufficient supply of air can release carbon monoxide, a dangerous gas. Be watchful for things like yellow flames, flickering flames or soot that might indicate an appliance with a problem.

Symptoms of carbon-monoxide poisoning include:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Heart flutters
• Fatigue
• Nausea