Dealing with Dangerous Gas Leaks
There is no such thing as a safe gas leak. The situation must be handled immediately if there is any suspicion of a gas leak. Unfortunately, many people don’t know how to spot a gas leak or, even worse, how to respond when a gas leak is present. Understanding the dangers and signs of gas leaks is vital to knowing how to respond when a leak is found. Here is a quick guide from local experts to keep the family and home safe from gas leaks.
Dangers of Gas Leaks
Natural gas and propane are the two utilities most commonly associated with gas leaks in homes and businesses. Both of these are fossil fuels that are prized for their convenience and usefulness. Despite the convenience of gas and propane, they can present some dangers for people and homes.
Since gas and propane are combustible and explosive, the main dangers associated with leaks are fires and explosions. However, if small gas leaks are present and there is no ignition source, they can cause a variety of health problems for people and pets, even leading to death by asphyxiation. While natural gas is lighter than air and will float to the ceiling and away from people, propane is heavier than air and will first pool at the ground level.
Signs of Gas Leaks
Natural gas and propane are common utilities that make home cooking and heating cheap and easy. With all that gas piping running through the home, it is a miracle that more gas leaks don’t happen. However, the security and reliability of gas plumbing is no excuse for complacency.
When natural gas or propane leaks, the situation is serious. Some of the signs that are evident when this happens are:
- A strong smell of sulfur or rotten eggs
- Lightheadedness
- Chest pain
- Hissing sounds
- Dying indoor plants
- Dead spots on the lawn
- Lethargy in pets
Typically, the biggest sign of gas leaks is the odorant added to the gas to make it more easily noticeable. The human nose can perceive the sulfurous compound at concentrations lower than the critical gas concentrations in the air. However, in the wake of a global pandemic that left many people unable to smell, knowing the other signs of gas leaks is vital to the safety of homes that rely on gas and propane.
Responding During a Gas Leak
Once these signs have been noticed, homeowners must respond appropriately to keep people and property safe. First, they should exit the structure, extinguishing any flames as they go. Don’t turn electronics like lights or devices on or off, as this could cause a spark. Proceed outside and leave the door open to help ventilate. Immediately call the gas company or local firefighters to turn the gas off.
These professionals will then safely ventilate the home. Local plumbers must be called for repairs if the leak is inside the home. Look for experts that respond to emergencies, specifically gas-related emergencies. Once the home is ventilated and the repairs have been made, the home will be safe again.
About Cardinal Heating & Air Conditioning
Cardinal Heating & Air Conditioning specializes in HVAC, electrical, and plumbing services. They are BBC-accredited with teams that are always ready to respond to emergencies. With over 30 years of experience, they can reliably install or repair gas or propane lines. Call today for gas line service in Sun Prairie, WI.
