What to Do in a Gas Leak Emergency

Gas leaks are one of those emergencies you never want to face – but if you do, knowing exactly what to do can make all the difference.

Natural gas is highly flammable, and even a small leak can quickly become a serious danger to your home and your health. The good news? Staying calm and acting fast can help you protect yourself and others.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the key signs of a gas leak and the immediate steps you should take to stay safe. We’ll also cover what you should never do during a leak and how to help prevent future problems.

It’s information everyone should know – because when it comes to gas leaks, a quick, smart response really can save lives.

Recognising the Signs of a Gas Leak

Spotting the signs of a gas leak early can save lives. If you know what to look (and smell) for, you’ll be able to act quickly.

Here are the main warning signs:

• Smell of rotten eggs – Natural gas is treated with a chemical (Mercaptan) that gives it a strong sulphur-like smell.
• Hissing sounds – A hissing or whistling noise near gas lines, appliances, or pipes could mean gas is escaping.
• Dead or discoloured plants – Outdoor gas leaks can cause surrounding grass, shrubs, or trees to die suddenly.
• Physical symptoms – Feeling dizzy, nauseous, light-headed or getting frequent headaches indoors could be a sign of a leak.
• Bubbling in water – If you see bubbling in standing water or mud near gas lines, it could indicate a leak underground.

If you notice any of these signs, act quickly and get to safety.

Immediate Actions to Take if You Suspect a Gas Leak

If you think there’s a gas leak, it’s important to act fast but stay calm. Here’s what you should do immediately:

• Do not use electrical devices – Don’t turn lights, appliances, or anything electrical on or off, as this can create a spark.
• Avoid flames and smoking – Don’t light matches, candles or cigarettes.
• Open windows and doors – Help the gas escape by ventilating the area as much as possible.
• Evacuate the premises – Get everyone out of the house, including pets, and move to a safe distance.
• Turn off the gas supply – If safe to do so, switch off the gas at the meter.
• Call for help – Contact your gas provider’s emergency line or call emergency services from outside the property.

Quick, safe action can make all the difference in a gas leak situation.

How to Safely Turn Off the Gas Supply

If you suspect a gas leak and it’s safe to do so, one of the most important steps is shutting off the gas supply to your home.

First, locate your gas meter – this is usually outside, near the front or side of the house. You’ll see a valve attached to the meter. To turn the gas off, rotate the valve a quarter turn (90°) so that it’s perpendicular to the pipe. This stops the gas flow entirely.

Only do this if you’re sure there’s no immediate danger like sparks or flames nearby. Don’t take any chances – if you feel unsafe, get everyone out and call the professionals.

Never try to fix the leak yourself. Once the gas is off and help is on the way, wait for the all-clear from your gas provider or emergency services before re-entering your home or turning anything back on.

Who to Call During a Gas Leak Emergency

Once you’re safely away from the source of the leak, it’s important to contact the right people straight away. Here’s who to call:

• Emergency services (000) – If there’s an immediate danger like a strong smell of gas, fire, or explosion risk, call 000 first.
• Your gas provider’s emergency line – They have specialised teams trained to respond quickly to gas emergencies.
• Licensed gas plumber or fitter – Once the immediate danger is under control, you’ll need a professional plumber/gas fitter to inspect and repair the leak safely.
• Important: Only make calls from a safe distance away from the suspected leak. Using a phone inside the property could create a spark.

Always act quickly and trust the experts to handle the situation properly. Gas leaks are serious – professional help is essential to make sure everything is safe before you return.

What Not to Do During a Gas Leak

During a gas leak, there are some things you should absolutely avoid to keep yourself and others safe. Here’s what not to do:

1. Don’t use electrical switches – Avoid turning lights or appliances on or off, as even a tiny spark can ignite gas.
2. Don’t use open flames – Stay away from matches, lighters, candles, and cigarettes.
3. Don’t try to locate the leak – Leave it to the professionals; trying to find the source yourself could put you at greater risk.
4. Don’t attempt DIY repairs – Gas systems require specialist handling. Trying to fix it yourself could make the situation worse.
5. Don’t stay inside the building – Get everyone out quickly and stay away until it’s confirmed safe to return.

Knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing the right steps. Stay calm, act fast, and leave it to the experts.

Preventing Future Gas Leaks

While gas leaks can happen unexpectedly, there’s a lot you can do to reduce the risk. Regular maintenance is key – have all your gas appliances, heaters and hot water systems professionally inspected at least once a year.

A licensed gas fitter can catch small issues before they turn into major problems. It’s also a smart idea to install a gas detector in your home, especially near appliances or in enclosed spaces like basements. These detectors can alert you to even the smallest leaks early on.

Pay attention to how your gas appliances are working too. If you notice anything unusual, like weak flames, strange smells or hissing sounds, don’t ignore it. And finally, make sure everyone in your household knows where the gas meter is located and how to turn it off in an emergency.

A little preparation goes a long way toward keeping your home and family safe.

Safety Always Comes First

A gas leak is a serious emergency but knowing what to do can make all the difference. Acting quickly, staying calm, and following the right steps can help protect you, your family, and your home.

Always be alert to the signs of a leak, and if you ever suspect one, get out, call for help, and never take unnecessary risks. Remember, it’s just as important to know what not to do during a gas leak to avoid making the situation worse.

Regular maintenance and having an emergency plan in place are simple ways to stay prepared. And when in doubt, always call the experts. Safety should always come first – and being ready means you’ll know exactly how to respond if a gas leak ever happens.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gas Leak Emergencies

Do you have any questions about gas leak emergencies? Keep reading for answers to the most commonly asked questions.

How can I tell if I have a gas leak?

A gas leak usually gives off a strong smell, like rotten eggs. You might also hear a hissing sound near pipes or appliances, see dead plants around gas lines, or experience symptoms like dizziness or headaches. If you notice any of these signs, act quickly – open windows, leave the area, and call for help.

Is it safe to use my phone inside if I smell gas?

No, it’s not safe. Using your phone inside could create a tiny spark that might ignite the gas. Always move to a safe distance outside before making any calls to emergency services or your gas provider.

Can I fix a gas leak myself if it looks small?

Definitely not. Gas systems are complex and dangerous. Even a small mistake could cause a fire or explosion. Always leave gas leak repairs to licensed professionals who have the right training and equipment.