Oct. 23 2009 – As autumn temperatures continue to drop and customers begin to turn on furnaces for the winter heating season, National Grid is issuing important tips regarding gas leak safety.
Like any fuel, natural gas is safe when it is used properly. In the interest of customer and public safety, National Grid crews continually test, repair and improve the underground system that delivers natural gas.
Despite best efforts, however, the possibility does exist for a natural gas leak in or near your home. A gas leak can occur when the ground heaves as water in it freezes and thaws. Natural gas could also escape from faulty or improperly operated home appliances. National Grid adds a harmless substance called mercaptan that has a strong odor, similar to that of a rotten egg, to natural gas so you can tell if there’s a gas leak inside or near a building.
National Grid advises its customers who suspect a natural gas leak to take the following immediate actions:
• If it is a faint odor, call National Grid’s gas emergency number at 1-800-892-2345.
• If the gas odor is strong, or if you hear a hissing sound, get all occupants out of the house immediately and call the gas emergency number from a neighbor’s house. Do not call from your house or use the phone for any reason. Also, do not strike a match or switch lights or appliances on or off.
• Never try to put out a fire you suspect may be caused by escaping gas. Leave immediately.
• Do not return to your home until National Grid tells you it is safe.
For additional safety information, go to National Grid’s web site at www.nationalgridus.com.
National