What Not To Do:
- Do not use electrical devices or electronics, such as phones, radios, computers, garage door openers, etc.
- Do not touch electrical outlets or switches
- Do not smoke of use a match or lighter
- Do not try to light or re-light pilot lights
- Do not start or operate vehicles or equipment
Finally, do not return to the building until Valley Energy and/or first responders have given the all-clear.
Recognizing a Gas Leak
In its natural state, natural gas is both colorless and odorless. As a safety precaution, Valley Energy adds an odorant to natural gas to give it a “rotten egg” odor that helps alert people to the presence of natural gas. This unpleasant odor of natural gas is for your protection in the event of a leak. To request a natural gas odorant scratch and sniff card to witness the smell, please click the link below.
Do not rely on sense of smell alone to detect natural gas
The sense of smell for most people is a highly reliable indicator of a natural gas release. However, continued exposure to the odorant can desensitize the sense of smell. Additionally, the smell of natural gas can be masked by other odors in the area.
Exposure to the odor for even a short period of time may cause nasal fatigue, where a person can no longer smell the odor. If you suffer from loss of smell, nasal fatigue or recurrent ailments, such as colds, sinus conditions or allergies, you might have a diminished capability to detect a natural gas leak. Using tobacco, alcohol, or medications can lessen your ability to smell odorized gas.
Valley Energy encourages you to use all of your senses to determine the presence of natural gas. Be aware of anything that looks different inside or outside of your house, such as discolored flames around a pilot light or equipment, bubbling water outdoors, blowing dirt or spots of dead vegetation. These could be signs of a natural gas leak. If you hear a hissing sound coming from an indoor appliance, gas meter or piping, or from the ground outside, it may signal a gas leak. If you think you smell, hear, or see a natural gas leak, you need to act fast.
Here is an information natural gas leak safety video:
If you suspect a leak
Remember, if you suspect a gas leak, don’t try to find or stop the leak. Get everyone away from the area or out of the building immediately, call Valley Energy 24 hours a day, 365 days a year at 1-800-998-4427 or 570-888-9664. There is no cost to have Valley Energy investigate a leak.
