What to Do if Your Building Has a Gas Leak
Gas leaks can occur in any building, and they are very dangerous when they happen. Gas leaks not only lead to a variety of health problems, but they can also cause an explosion in the building with fatal consequences. Knowing the signs of a gas leak, what to do when a gas leak occurs, and how to prevent gas leaks in the future will keep you and others safe.
Signs of a Gas Leak
The first major sign of a gas leak is the sulfuric odor that smells like rotten eggs. This smell actually isn’t a component of natural gas, but it is added in order to warn you that the gas is leaking. Other signs of gas leaks include a sound of hissing and blowing and flames if the leak has caught on fire. You can also watch out for any dead or brown vegetation in an area that is typically green or bubbling that occurs in areas that are flooded or wet. Finally, check for any dust, dirt, or debris that is blowing out of a hold located in the ground. These are all common signs that a gas leaked is happening in your building.
Gas Leak Dangers
Natural gas, when uncontained, can be extremely dangerous. First, this gas is very easily combustible and could cause a massive fire or explosion if your home has a source of fire or any electrical sparking. Second, if your gas is leaking and you inhale a large amount of it, you can suffer from asphyxia. Signs of this include pain in your chest and fatigue. Unfortunately, inhaling too much gas can even lead to death.
What Should I Do?
If you suspect a gas leak, you should leave the building immediately. Once you and everyone else in the building are safe, you can call 911 to report the potential leak as well as the gas company to inspect the building. They will inform you of how to proceed. There are also many things that you should absolutely never do if you suspect a gas leak. First, do not use any electricity, as this could cause a spark. This includes light switches, the phone, and appliances. You should also never light any open flames because this could also cause a fire.
In addition, you should never try to find the cause of the gas leak on your own. This could be very dangerous and should be left to professionals with the proper equipment. Never try to turn off any of your appliances or gas valves, as this could lead to further complications. You should also not start any vehicles, as they emit gas as well. Finally, do not try to put out a gas leak fire and never return to the building until a professional informs you that it is safe.
Preventing Gas Leaks
In the future, there are many steps you can take to prevent gas leaks from occurring. Many gas leaks are caused by issues with appliances, such as leaving your stove burners on by accident, moving appliances but not examining the gas connections, using appliances that are damaged or too old, or having you appliances installed incorrectly. You can also prevent gas leaks by keeping your fuel lines safe. Do not store anything on them, and never allow your children to play on the pipes. Finally, you should always make sure that you replace your flexible connectors every ten years.
Gas Repair from Albuquerque Plumbing, Heating & Cooling
At Albuquerque Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, we offer a wide variety of gas repair services. If your home or commercial space has suffered a gas leak, we can repair your gas line as well as your gas furnace. In addition, our certified technicians provide quality gas line preventative maintenance to ensure that your systems never reach the point of a gas leak. This includes Electronic testing for carbon monoxide and gas leaks, servicing any appliances that run on gas such as boilers and water heaters and furnaces. In the unfortunate case a leak cannot be located without breaking out walls and ceilings Albuquerque Plumbing can repipe your home in most cases with no damage at all!
Our company has over 50 years of combine experience in all plumbing, heating, and cooling systems, including gas line maintenance and repair. Albuquerque Plumbing, Heating & Cooling is known for excellent customer service and trustworthy work, each and every time. Contact us today for a free estimate* on gas line repair, or to discuss preventative maintenance for your gas line, gas furnace, and gas appliances.