Gas Leak Hazards

Natural gas is non-toxic and can’t make you sick unless the concentration is so high that you can’t get enough oxygen to your lungs.  When natural gas escapes it dissipates in the atmosphere unlike other gases such as propane that are heavier and don’t rise.

Natural gas can’t explode on its own, but it will ignite if there’s air and an ignition source.  This happens when gas with a concentration of 5 – 15% relative to air is present and the ignition source is 850 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.

Controlling the gas air mixture and/or removing all ignition sources can avoid natural gas explosions and fires.  However, without proper gas monitoring devices it is not possible for a home owner who smells gas inside their home to know whether or not the atmosphere is explosive so it is always best to treat the situation as though it's explosive.

• If you smell gas, don't look for the source of the leak. Get out immediately!
• Do not use the telephone and do not turn any lights or electrical switches on or off. These actions can create a spark.
• Once you are safely out of the building find a phone and call your utility company, 9-1-1 or East Resources at 800-344-6601.