Smell Gas? Here’s What to Do Before You Even Call Us

Move Quickly to Get Everyone Out

Once you suspect gas is in the air, time matters. The most important step is to get everyone outside. Do not try to confirm the source. Do not wait to see if the smell fades. The risk is too high. Keep a few points in mind while evacuating:

• Avoid Electronics: Don’t turn on or off light switches. Don’t use your phone until you’re outdoors. Even small sparks can ignite gas.
• Skip the Appliances: Don’t use the stove, oven, or even the doorbell. Leave everything as it is.
• Think about pets: Animals are vulnerable, too. Bring them with you so they aren’t left in a dangerous space.
• Choose a Safe Spot: Once outside, move a fair distance from the home. Standing right at the door still puts you close to the risk zone.

It may feel inconvenient to leave everything behind, but nothing inside your house is worth risking your health or safety. Once everyone is outside and safe, you can start making the calls you need.

Call for Professional Help from a Safe Location

When you’re clear of the house, the first call should be to your gas utility provider. Nearly every provider operates an emergency response team for suspected leaks. Their crew will arrive with the equipment needed to shut off the supply and check whether gas is present. Next, call emergency services if the situation feels urgent. If you see flames, hear loud hissing, or feel lightheaded, don’t hesitate to dial 911. Firefighters and first responders are trained to handle gas emergencies and will secure the area. Once the immediate danger is under control, reach out to a local plumber for an inspection. If the problem traces back to your appliances or household piping, you’ll need professional repair. A gas line repair may be necessary before your home can safely use natural gas again. Getting help quickly reduces downtime and keeps your system running.

Don’t Try DIY Fixes

Gas lines are not like a leaky faucet or a slow drain. They should never be handled without specialized training. Even tightening a connector or adjusting a valve without proper tools can create sparks or worsen a leak. It might be tempting to try to solve small problems yourself, but this is one area where doing so can be dangerous. Some homeowners attempt to patch or seal small leaks with tape or glue. These are unsafe temporary fixes that won’t hold up under pressure. Natural gas needs to flow through sealed, tested piping. Anything less puts your home at risk. Always leave gas work to qualified professionals.

Reduce Your Risk with Preventive Maintenance

While no system is perfect, there are steps you can take to minimize the chance of a leak. Preventive care is the best defense.

• Annual Inspections: Have a plumbing repair service check your gas lines once a year. They can spot wear and tear before it becomes hazardous.
• Appliance Checks: Make sure connections to stoves, dryers, furnaces, and water heaters are tight and secure. Flexible connectors should be replaced every ten years.
• Upgrade Old Pipes: If your home still uses outdated materials like steel or iron pipes, ask about modern replacements. Newer piping is safer and longer-lasting.
• Install Detectors: Carbon monoxide detectors are essential, but methane detectors are also available.
• Know Your Shut-Off: Learn where your gas meter shut-off valve is located. In some emergencies, utility crews may advise you to turn it off while waiting for help.

Understand the Health Concerns

Gas leaks can affect your health. Short-term exposure may cause fatigue, headaches, and dizziness. Long-term exposure in poorly ventilated spaces can be much more serious. In rare cases, it can lead to unconsciousness and fatalities. Children, the elderly, and pets are more vulnerable. If you’ve had prolonged exposure and feel unwell, seek medical attention. Don’t assume symptoms will go away on their own. Once the leak is fixed, ventilating the space thoroughly is also critical before moving back inside.

Act Fast and Call the Right Team

The smell of gas is never something to take lightly. Recognizing the signs, evacuating immediately, and calling the right people can prevent tragedy. Once the emergency crews and utility company have done their part, you’ll need a reliable plumber to inspect and repair your system. Whether you need a quick adjustment or a full gas line repair, you’ll know the work is done safely and correctly. At Mr. Rooter Plumbing, your safety comes first. Our team provides detailed inspections, plumbing repair service, and lasting solutions for every home. Call today to schedule an inspection or repair and protect your home from gas leaks.