Steps for Addressing a Gas Leak

Homes or businesses that take advantage of more energy-efficient gas service benefit from lower costs, but expose themselves to more volatile risks. Gas, when ignited by even the smallest spark, can result in a devastating fire or explosion that could destroy a home or business. If you're concerned about gas safety, make sure you know how to address a gas emergency in Marietta. Having the knowledge of how to respond before a disaster could be the difference between life and death.

 

Assess the Situation

 

If you have a gas water heater, stove, oven, fireplace or other appliance that is supplied by gas service and you start to smell gas one day, first assess the situation. Are you using the appliance that uses gas service? If you are, make sure the smell has dissipated after a few minutes. If not, then there might be a leak and you need to evacuate immediately. If you know how to shut off the gas service, do that, and then leave the building. If you are unsure or it's more important to evacuate, focus on that instead.

 

Call the Authorities

 

Because of the volatile nature of gas, a gas leak in Marietta has to be taken seriously. When you first start to smell gas, make sure everyone is out of the building and then call the authorities. If you know the number of the gas supplier, call them first. Many have prompts that lead you to an emergency department where you can then explain the situation and have technicians dispatched. Then, call the local authorities who might need to be on scene. This could include the fire department, hazardous materials crews or ambulances if anyone is feeling ill from the odors.

 

Avoid the Area

 

If there is an active leak taking place, it is important that you establish a caution zone around the area. This caution zone refers to the space around the leak where there should be no traffic, people or movement that could result in a spark. Gas is highly flammable and combustible. If you have to, do not allow vehicles into the area and keep people far away. Move them to an alternate location if possible. If you have neighbors or share a business complex with others, alert them to the leak and help them evacuate if necessary. While the situation might be resolved without incident, it's better to take all precautions and create a minor inconvenience than be faced with a catastrophe due to a gas leak in Marietta.

 

Be Proactive and Communicate

 

When the authorities arrive, they are going to need information. Make sure you are available to answer questions. Be helpful and address concerns of those around you. If anyone is ill, find them medical attention. If you're out in the elements, maybe look for a place to relocate so everyone is comfortable while they wait to go back inside.

 

Stay Calm

 

A gas leak in Marietta is something to address quickly, but trust the professionals to take care of you. They have the expertise and tools necessary to fix the problem and make sure you and those you are responsible for are protected.