Natural gas safety for your home
Sponsored by: MNAR
Natural gas provides the fuel for many items in a home, including gas-burning stoves, furnaces, water heaters, and some fireplaces. With the temperature decreasing in Minnesota, more and more people are increasing their natural gas use.
Utility lines in the ground deliver the natural gas to a property. Leaks can happen where gas lines meet items in the home or in the lines underground.
Natural gas doesn't have an odor, but utility companies add a bad smell to alert residents if there is a leak. You may also hear a faint hissing sound if there is a leak.
If you think you smell or hear a gas leak, make your way out of the property and try to open a window as you exit. The open window will help diffuse the potential build-up of natural gas.
Additionally safety measures include:
- Do not turn on an electrical switch, as it could ignite the loose natural gas.
- Wait until you are outside and away from the gas before you use your cell phone. This could also ignite the gas.
- Do not attempt to turn off a gas valve - if the valve is damaged, moving it could make the leak worse.
Most importantly thing to remember about natural gas safety is exit quickly and then call to report a leak to the fire department and utility company.
More information on natural gas leaks and safety:
Centerpoint Energy's safety tips for natural gas
Xcel Energy's safety tips for natural gas
