Gas Safety Tips
Natural gas is a reliable and useful source of energy, but it must be used with care and respect to avoid the dangers that can result from misuse. Natural gas is colorless and invisible. Because natural gas has no odor, a special chemical is added to make it easy to detect gas leaks from pipes or appliances. This odor is commonly described as a rotten egg smell.
When natural gas burns, it should appear as a clear, blue flame. Indications of a problem with a gas appliance could be a yellow flame (instead of blue), wavering flame or soot.
What to do if you smell gas:
If you smell natural gas or suspect a gas leak, tell everyone to leave the house immediately. Then call from a neighbor's phone well away from the gas odor.
- DO NOT try to locate the gas leak.
- DO NOT smoke or light matches.
- DO NOT turn lights or any electric appliances on or off.
- DO NOT operate a flashlight.
- DO NOT use your telephone.
- DO open doors and windows to increase ventilation.
- DO tell everyone to leave the house immediately.
- DO NOT reenter your home until WG&L has told you it is safe to do so.
Call Before You Dig
Natural gas pipelines and other utility services could be within a few feet of the surface. For homeowners, digging in your yard poses some risk. A damaged gas line or service to a house can create an explosion hazard that potentially endangers both persons and property. These underground facilities are not always located out in the street. So whether you are grading, installing sprinklers, or planting a tree, WG&L would encourage you to call 1-800-282-7411 before you dig.
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