The air in my vent doesn't smell good, what should I do?
Lynne asked a similar question on June 10, 2016. Her question was edited for readability.
A very important safety question Lynne, thank you for asking.
Natural gas smells similar to rotten eggs. Make sure you, and your family, know what to do if you smell gas. For free emergency response service, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, call us at 1-866 763-5427.
In its pure state, natural gas is odourless. For your safety, we add an odourant called mercaptan, to give it a distinctive rotten egg or sulphur like smell.
The video below will help you understand how to recognize a gas smell and what to do quickly if you do.
If you suspect a natural gas leak:
- Act quickly and remain calm
- Go outside or leave the area immediately
- Call our 24-hour Emergency Number: 1-866-763-5427
- Never assume someone else has called to report a natural gas leak
Follow these safety precautions:
- Don't use phones or any electronics near the leak
- Don't turn appliances or lights on or off
- Don't smoke or use lights or matches
- Don't start any vehicles or motors
If leaking natural gas is burning, call 911. Don't attempt to put the fire out yourself.
Most often natural gas leaks are detected by smell. However, a hissing sound, damaged connection or dead or dying vegetation in the area around your natural gas meter, appliances or gas lines may also be signs of a leak.
