Household Safety Tips

 

Indoor Gas Leaks

If you smell a faint odor of gas, look for a pilot light that’s out on a gas range, water heater, or furnace. If you see one, turn the appliance off and open windows—top and bottom—to let gas escape. Wait at least five minutes before relighting the pilot.

  • Don’t turn electrical switches on or off, light a match, or use a flashlight or telephone because an electric arc could ignite the gas, causing an explosion.
  • If the odor is strong or persistent, get everyone out of the house.
  • Don’t try to relight a gas furnace, water heater, or range until you are sure there’s no more smell of gas.
  • If you smell gas and can’t find the source immediately, go to a safe location and call your local gas utility and 911.