Tips on Safely Living with Natural Gas

Natural gas is lighter than air. When not confined, escaping gas will rise and quickly dissipate. In a closed room, however, it will accumulate near the ceiling and gradually displace the air, starting at the top and continuing downward. In this latter case a mixture of air and gas could be produced, creating a dangerous condition. Natural gas is colorless and, in its natural state, has no smell. That is why a harmless odorant is added to the gas before it is delivered to your residence. This odor is distinctive and unpleasant, which makes gas leaks easy to detect. When gas is burned properly, the odor is eliminated. If you smell gas inside or outside your home, take immediate action. Escaping gas can result in fires and even an explosion.

A slight or faint gas odor near an appliance does not necessarily indicate a leak - sometimes it simply means that the appliance pilot needs relighting. If you have any doubt, or if the odor persists after relighting the pilot, open windows and doors in the room and immediately call PECO 1-800-841-4141 and let the representative know that you are reporting a gas leak.

Leave the building. Don't operate any gas or electric appliances, or turn any light switches on or off. Open your windows as you leave the residence. If you can, shut off the supply of gas. Only attempt this if you know where the valve is located, can reach it quickly. The natural gas that fuels the appliances in your residence is delivered through a piping network. Gas pipes are buried underneath streets and sidewalks. These pipes have connections that bring gas into homes and buildings, so if you smell gas, call PECO at 1-800-841-4141 and let their representative know that you are reporting a gas leak.

• Be sure to remain available to help emergency personnel locate the problem.

• Advise others of the potential danger so they will leave the immediate area.

• Extinguish all open flames; do not light matches and do not smoke.

• Caution others against the use of engines or motors (autos, lawn mowers, construction machinery, power tools, etc.) in the area where the gas leak is suspected.

• If necessary contact the police or fire department to help keep the area clear and protect nearby property. 

 

 

 

Tips on Safely Living with Gas Cylinders

Liquid Propane Gas (LP) is a convenient and safe source of energy, increasingly used to power appliances around the home, workplace and garden. The gas is propane stored under pressure to keep it liquid. A small leak can produce a large amount of flammable gas and if it ignites, the result could be a fire or even an explosion.

• Change or connect LP cylinders to an appliance ONLY in the open air

• Remember that LP fuel is heavier than air and will not disperse in a confined space.

• Ensure propane appliances are only used in properly ventilated areas.

• Never smoke or have an open flame near an LP cylinder which is being changed. Beware of sparks from electrical tools, and other sources as well.

• Check hoses on grill regularly and replace them as soon as you spot cracks or wear. Rodents are easily attracted to the smell of grease drippings on fuel lines, and will chew holes in them.

• Use of a rodent guard is recommended on the hose of your gas grill. Reveal leaks by applying soapy water to all connections and possible cracks - where there are bubbles, there are leaks.

• If you smell gas or suspect a leak, turn off the gas right away and get the appliance checked by your gas supplier.

• Store spare cylinders outside but not below ground level.

• Lock gas cylinders well away from children.