Stay Safe From Dangerous Gas Leaks by Identifying Them Quickly
Natural gas is an essential resource for heating and cooking, but a gas leak can quickly turn dangerous. Identifying a gas leak quickly is the first and most crucial step in protecting the home and family. Knowing the common signs can help people react promptly and call for gas leak detection and repair, helping avoid serious health and safety risks.
Strange Smells or Sounds
One of the most identifiable signs of a gas leak is the presence of unusual smells or sounds. Natural gas is naturally odorless, but utility companies add a chemical called mercaptan, which gives it a distinctive, pungent smell, often described as sulfur or rotten eggs. If people detect this odor inside or outside the home, it's a strong indicator of a leak.
Beyond the smell, people may also hear sounds coming from gas lines or appliances. A hissing or whistling noise near a gas line, appliance, or meter may indicate gas escaping under pressure. Never ignore these signs of a gas leak and instead evacuate everyone from the home immediately before calling for help.
Higher Gas Bill
If homeowners notice their monthly gas bill spiking unexpectedly, it can also point to a gas leak. When a household’s gas usage hasn't changed from month to month, this should be reflected in similar gas costs, but an unexplained increase in the utility bill could point to a hidden gas leak.
The escaping gas still passes through the meter and gets charged to the household account. Homeowners should make it a habit to keep track of monthly gas bills and investigate any significant, unexplained jumps in gas costs to keep their family safe.
Physical Symptoms
Natural gas exposure can directly affect the health of people and pets in the home. If a leak goes undetected, occupants may begin to develop physical symptoms.
For people, common physical symptoms of a gas leak include:
- Eye and throat irritation
- Nausea and vomiting
- Unexplained fatigue or drowsiness
- Breathing complications or chest pain
- Persistent headache
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Loss of consciousness in severe cases
Pets can also show signs of gas exposure, often before humans do, due to their smaller size and faster metabolisms. Symptoms in household pets may include:
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing
- Lethargy or unusual sluggishness
- Disorientation
When multiple family members or pets develop these symptoms simultaneously while inside the home, a gas leak should be suspected. In any situation where people suspect a gas leak, the immediate action should be to evacuate the premises, call the gas utility company, and contact professionals for gas line repair from a safe distance.
About John The Plumber
John The Plumber has been serving Pompano Beach and the surrounding areas since 1979. They provide same-day service, 24/7 emergency response, and straightforward pricing. Call them for gas leak repair services in Pompano Beach, FL.
