How To React If You Smell Gas Inside Your Home
12/19/2018 (Permalink)
Many residents of Yardley,PA, may utilize natural gas to heat their homes or power appliances. While this fuel may be an efficient energy source, a leaking line or pipe can be extremely hazardous. Because of this, it’s important for every homeowner to take prompt action if they smell gas and suspect a leak. Otherwise, a potentially devastating gas fire may erupt.
Take Necessary Precautions
A gas explosion can occur suddenly. If you notice an unpleasant rotten egg smell inside or near your house, you should take extreme caution. To help prevent an inferno, it’s imperative that you avoid the following potentially dangerous activities:
- Smoking or igniting matches
- Turning lights on or off
- Utilizing electronic equipment or appliances
- Adjusting the thermostat
Check Appliances
If you detect an unusual or offensive odor near your furnace, stove or water heater, check the unit’s pilot light and restart it if necessary. If the light is on, there may be a faulty component requiring maintenance. To avoid accidently igniting a gas fire, you should be cautious and refrain from using the device until it’s properly inspected and repaired.
Call for Assistance
If you suspect there is a leak inside your home, you should evacuate the premises and immediately call either 911 or your utility provider. To help reduce the risk of a gas explosion, it’s best to avoid using any phone near the suspected seepage. For safety reasons, you should also extinguish any nearby open fires and keep everyone away until authorities arrive.
Never Ignore the Situation
A gas fire can spread quickly and cause significant damage, requiring extensive cleanup and restoration. Because of this, a lingering natural gas odor should never be ignored. To help safeguard your property and personal safety, it’s imperative that you promptly report any suspected leaks and refrain from commencing specified activities that may inadvertently cause an explosion.