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Natural Gas is an efficient, low-cost fuel that is lighter than air. When not confined, escaping gas will rise and quickly dissipate. In a closed room, however, it will accumulate near the ceiling and gradually displace the air, starting at the top and continuing downward. In this latter case, an explosive mixture of air and gas could be produced, creating a dangerous condition.
Natural gas is colorless and odorless. To be able to detect gas by smell, an odorant called mercaptan is added. Mercaptan has a very foul odor that smells like sulfur or rotten eggs.
Pipelines are the
safest and most efficient method available for delivering
natural gas. Below are some tips to help spot a natural gas
leak outdoors:
- If you see dirt or water blowing
into the air, or notice standing water continuously bubbling.
Also discolored vegetation (like brown patches in a green
field) or dry spots in a moist field.
- If you smell an odor that smells
like sulfur or rotten eggs.
- If you hear a loud roaring or
high-pitched hissing sound.
If you detect a leak
outdoors:
- Leave the area immediately
- Call 9-1-1 OR your local fire department
- Call Dominion East Ohio Gas (in
Lima 419-226-4700) elsewhere (800-877-4715)
If you detect an
odor indoors:
- Clear ALL occupants from the structure
- Call 9-1-1 OR your local fire department
- Call Dominion East Ohio Gas (in
Lima 419-226-4700) elsewhere (800-877-4715)
- DO NOT turn on or off an electrical
switch or appliance of any kind
- Once you leave the building, DO NOT
RETURN to the structure until after it has been examined.
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