A gas leak emergency is the one household situation where minutes matter. Gas leaks bring health risks, fires, and explosions. At Stanley Lewis Plumbing & Heating, we work on gas lines in pre-war buildings, and the response to a gas leak emergency is always the same. Here is the order to follow.
Natural gas is commonly used for heating, cooking, and powering appliances. It is generally safe. Still, faulty appliances, damaged lines, and improper installations all cause leaks. Natural gas is odorless, so utilities add mercaptan. That is the sulfur or rotten-egg smell you notice first.
Here is what to do during a gas leak emergency.
Gas Leak Emergency: Immediate Actions
- Don’t Panic: Staying calm will help you think clearly and act decisively.
- Evacuate Immediately: Get everyone out of the building as quickly as possible. Do not waste time trying to find the source of the leak or opening windows. Your immediate safety is the top priority.
- Leave the Door Open: As you evacuate, leave the door open to ventilate the property. This can help prevent a buildup of gas, which reduces the risk of an explosion.
- Avoid Ignition Sources: Do not use any electrical switches, including lights, appliances, or electronic devices, as these can create a spark. Do not use lighters, matches, or anything that could produce a flame. Do not start any vehicles or machinery.
- Call for Help: Once you are a safe distance away from the building, call National Grid at 1-718-643-4050 or the FDNY. In Manhattan, the Bronx, and parts of Queens, call Con Edison instead. Provide them with as much detail as possible about the situation.
- Warn Others: If there are other people in the vicinity, such as neighbors or passersby, warn them about the potential danger and advise them to stay away from the area.
After Evacuation
- Stay Away: Do not return until the utility or the FDNY declares the building safe to re-enter. They will need to inspect the property thoroughly and repair the leak.
- Ventilation: Once the building is declared safe, ventilate it thoroughly by opening windows and doors. This will help remove any remaining gas.
- Inspection and Repair: Before using any gas appliances, have a Licensed Master Plumber inspect them. Our Master Plumber holds NYC Licensed Master Plumber #2296 and pulls the Department of Buildings permits that gas repairs require. Repair any identified issues immediately.
Preventing the Next Gas Leak
- Regular Maintenance: Have your gas appliances and gas lines inspected and maintained regularly by a professional. This can help identify potential problems before they become serious.
- Install Gas Detectors: Install gas detectors in your home, especially near sleeping areas and gas appliances. Test them regularly to ensure they are working correctly.
- Know the Signs: Familiarize yourself with the signs of a gas leak, such as the distinctive smell, a hissing sound near gas lines, or dead vegetation in the area.
Knowing how to respond during a gas leak emergency can save lives and prevent serious damage. Act quickly, follow these steps, and always prioritize safety. If you ever suspect a gas leak, don’t hesitate to call the professionals at Stanley Lewis Plumbing & Heating for immediate assistance. With over 50 years of experience serving the New York City area, our technicians are Full Gas Work Qualified or Limited Gas Work Qualified, and handle leak detection, repair, meter work, and pipe maintenance. Once the utility clears the building, contact us to schedule the repair and the inspections that restore your service. For more on detecting leaks, National Grid publishes its own gas safety guidance.