How to Respond if There’s an Indoor Gas Leak
Gas leaks are difficult to identify because they are invisible. Homeowners are encouraged to pay attention to their surroundings to detect gas. Although the gas is not visible, the repercussions of a dangerous leak can still be spotted.
Are All Gas Leaks Dangerous?
Even small leaks can jeopardize a household’s health. Since gas is lethal, it will eventually cause respiratory problems for both children and adults. Gas reduces the amount of oxygen indoors, leading to various health issues. Headaches and nausea are commonly reported in the earlier stages of gas poisoning, but this can quickly turn into fatigue with breathing difficulties.
Natural gas is also flammable. Once gas spreads throughout the home, the risk of fire dramatically increases. In addition to carbon monoxide poisoning, gas leaks may cause explosions if they are not fixed.
When household members experience gas leak symptoms, they must leave the premises for their safety. If the leak is small, household members must stand at least 330 feet from the home. For larger leaks, adults and children are advised to seek medical help as soon as possible.
Visible Signs of a Gas Leak
Underground leaks usually occur from a pressure buildup in the pipeline. This causes dead grass and wet patches to form around the property. If bubbles are surfacing from puddles in the yard, this may indicate natural gas.
Indoor leaks will harm houseplants first. If multiple plants are drooping or dry, this is usually a sign of toxic air. Natural gas makes it nearly impossible for roots to absorb the oxygen necessary to thrive. Coupled with a hissing sound, the leak is likely to be larger and more dangerous.
Turning on the stove is one simple way to check for a gas line leak. If the flame is orange instead of blue, the room has more gas than oxygen. Fire is very dangerous in the event of a gas leak and should be avoided as soon as a leak is detected.
Since natural gas is invisible and odorless, gas detectors often include an odorant to help household members identify leaks. This powerful scent, similar to rotten eggs, is included in gas detectors. If the odorant is not strong enough, homeowners can detect leaks through their home environment.
What to Do
Everyone needs to evacuate the home immediately if there is a gas leak, regardless of how strong the smell is. Even smaller leaks can have fatal consequences if household members are exposed for long periods. Opening the windows is not enough. On the way outside, it is important to avoid any possibility of fire. Lighting a cigarette or striking a match could cause massive fire damage.
While leaving the door open is recommended, homeowners are discouraged from staying inside just to open all the windows. Once safely outside, homeowners must first call the gas company. Once the gas is shut off, they can contact gas line repair specialists to fix the problem.
About Reeves Family Plumbing
Reeves Family Plumbing is a woman-owned business with over 50 years of experience. It offers personalized service and upfront pricing on every job, removing the guesswork from a stressful situation. Call Reeves Family Plumbing today to learn more about its gas leak repair services in Dallas, TX.
