Gas Leak Awareness Tips for This Summer

Gas Leaks Are Dangerous and Can Be Deadly: Be Prepared!

Summertime is a time for fun, family, and friends. But amid all the good times, it’s also important to ensure that everything and everyone is safe. And believe it or not, gas leaks are something that every homeowner needs to be prepared for. It’s one of those situations where having it and not needing it is better than needing it and not having it. The “it” in this case means knowledge and preparedness. So read on to find out all about gas leaks and how to be prepared for the eventuality. 

What Makes Gas Leaks Dangerous?

Gas leaks can be dangerous for a couple of reasons. When most people think of a gas leak, they think of carbon monoxide poisoning, which is technically a kind of gas leak. The best thing to do about carbon monoxide poisoning is to install carbon monoxide detectors. This article focuses on natural gas leaks. 

The biggest threat from a natural gas leak comes from its flammable and explosive potential. It’s extremely flammable and very dangerous when allowed to build up in the confines of a home or building. But that’s not the only threat. Natural gas can also displace oxygen, which can cause mental and physical damage to people and pets and can cause other signs to look out for. 

Signs There’s a Gas Leak

Natural gas doesn’t naturally have a smell, but natural gas companies put a chemical inside the gas to smell like sulfur or rotten eggs. An unexplained smell of rotten eggs is a great indication that there’s a gas leak. There are other signs, as well. Dying houseplants are another sign, as are a whistling sound near a gas line and/or wavy lines in the air near the gas line as if the air is blurring. 

Certain physical symptoms can crop up when there’s a natural gas leak. These include dizziness, nausea, flu-like symptoms, ringing ears, lack of appetite, nosebleeds, headaches, breathing problems, and chest pains. Drowsiness, blisters, and pale skin can also indicate a natural gas leak. 

What To Do If There’s a Gas Leak

For those experiencing severe symptoms, the emergency room should be the first stop after evacuating the house. Then it’s best to contact the gas company. For mild leaks, homeowners should open their doors and windows and call the gas company. They’ll often suggest turning off the gas or leaving the home until an employee can come out and check for a leak. But if there’s any doubt about the severity of the leak, everyone should leave the house after opening the doors and windows to prevent a possible explosion.  

For prevention, contact a professional plumbing company to check the gas lines regularly. Natural gas leaks are often the result of a worn or broken gas line or fixture. 

About Reeves Family Plumbing

Reeves Family Plumbing has been serving Dallas, TX, since 1960. They offer 24/7 service with a smile and always provide free estimates over the phone. They also provide prompt service and fast turnarounds. Contact them today for help with gas line leak detection and repair service in Dallas! 

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