What to Do When You Have a Gas Leak

Almost every residential and commercial premises in Australia uses gas. On those properties, approximately seventeen people die each year due to a gas leak.

 

How Dangerous is a Gas Leak?

Gas leaks are immensely dangerous – and for several reasons.

Natural gas is highly flammable. If any kind of naked flame or spark is exposed during a leak, a fire or explosion could take place. The spark can also come from an electrical device: flipping a light switch, turning off the TV or picking up the telephone can cause an explosion.

Alongside the risk of explosion, a gas leak is also highly problematic when it comes to health. Inhaling natural gas can cause headaches, exhaustion, dizziness, blurry vision and nausea. The more gas inhaled, the stronger the symptoms. 

 

Signs that you might have a gas leak

It can sometimes be difficult to identify a gas leak, but there are several things which could tip you off.

The first is the smell. If your home begins to smell like gas, the likelihood of a leak is high. You may also be able to hear it. A gas leak makes a low, hissing noise, which often comes from washers, dryers and gas stoves. The last factor which could give you a clue would be the movement. If there is a disturbance in the air, such as moving curtains, it could be due to the leak.

 

What to do when you suspect a gas leak

If you suspect that you have a gas leak, you need to act immediately. Firstly, turn off all gas access to your home at the main valve. Open all your windows and doors to allow fresh air to enter the property, which will stop the gas from building up in your home.

Exit the property and call a plumber or gas fitter immediately. A gas leak is a serious problem and it needs to be fixed as soon as possible.

In the meantime, do not use any electrical appliances or naked flames in your home, as this could trigger a reaction.

 

What to do after the gas leak

After the gas leak is fixed, air out your home before going back inside. It is also recommended that you consult a doctor to ensure no damage to your health will be sustained.

 

How to prevent gas leaks

Gas leaks can easily be prevented. Ensure that you schedule regular inspections of your gas-burning appliances and pipelines. Install a carbon monoxide detector in each bedroom and floor of the home. You should also keep a fire extinguisher in your home.

 

Need a Gas Plumber right now?

Plumbing emergencies don’t go away on their own. If you need a gas plumber right now, trust the team at JCS Plumbing for a quick response and effective solutions. We have been providing 24-hour plumbing solutions to metropolitan Perth for over fifteen years. Our team are all highly experienced, trained plumbers who can expertly handle your gas leak. 

Call JCS plumbing today and we will help.