Smell Gas at Home? What to Do (and Gas Alarms That Can Warn You)

Gas companies add a smell to natural gas, often described as rotten eggs, so you can notice a leak. If you ever smell it at home, here's what fire safety experts say to do.

1. Step 1: Get Out

Don't light anything, and don't try to find the leak. Get everyone out of the house right away, pets too.

2. Step 2: Call From Outside

Once you're outside and away from the house, call nine one one, and your gas company. Don't go back in until they say it's safe.

3. Leave Repairs To Pros

Gas appliances should be installed, serviced, and repaired by a gas professional. If a pilot light keeps going out, don't try to fix it yourself. Call a pro.

4. Get A Gas Alarm

A fuel gas alarm can warn you, even if you're asleep. Pick one that's listed by a testing lab. It beeps over and over, about once a second, when it senses gas.

5. Where To Put It

Natural gas rises, so mount a natural gas alarm on the ceiling, or high on the wall. Propane sinks, so a propane alarm goes low, near the floor. Keep it three to ten feet from gas appliances.