If you suspect a leak:
Leave immediately. Move to a safe place, at least 300 feet away.
- Do not try to turn off your gas meter.
- Warn others to stay away from the area.
- Call 911 when in a safe location far from the gas leak.
If you suspect a gas leak, do not:
- Use a lighter, match or candle, open flames or operate anything that could cause a spark (such as cell phones, lights, appliances, flashlights, garage door opener or power tools).
- Open exterior windows or doors in an attempt to ventilate.
- Try to find the leak yourself or operate any pipeline valves.
View our Gas Safety Brochure. To view translated versions of the brochure, visit northeastgas.org/be-nosey.
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Signs of a Leak
A gas leak is often recognized by sight, sound or smell.
Because natural gas is colorless and odorless, Unitil adds a harmless, non-toxic chemical that makes it easier to detect a gas leak before it can create a hazardous situation.
Residential Natural Gas Detectors
An additional layer of detection
A residential natural gas detector alerts residents of natural gas leak inside a building. The detector works like a smoke detector, using an internal sensor that measures and monitors the concentration of methane in the air. (Natural gas consists primarily of methane.) The detector will activate an alarm when safe levels of natural gas are exceeded.
There are a range of detectors available on the market. Unitil recommends that whatever you purchase is UL rated (UL 1484).
This information is important.
Please have it translated.