Gas leak

What to do if you smell gas

Natural gas is actually odourless. However, to ensure that any escaping gas is detected and to prevent any danger, strong odourants are added to it. These usually resemble the smell of ammonia and have a putrid, musty, pungent and unpleasant odour. The odourant added is so strong that even the smallest amounts of gas can be detected. If, for example, you smell gas when lighting the hob, this does not necessarily mean there is a risk of explosion.

What should you do if you smell gas?

• Dial the emergency number 112
• Stay calm
  

Extinguishing flames and fires

• If you smell gas but cannot identify the source or pinpoint its location, take immediate action to prevent any open flames
• Put out all candles and cigarettes
• Do not use a lighter or matches
• React quickly
• If gas has been leaking for some time, even a small spark is enough to cause an explosion

Do not use any electrical appliances

• Electrical appliances can also cause sparks
• Do not operate any light or appliance switches
• Do not pull plugs out of sockets
• Please do not use telephones or mobile phones in the house

Open window

• Open doors and windows to reduce gas concentrations
• To create a draught
• Do not switch on any electrical appliances such as extractor hoods or fans (risk of sparks)
   

Turn off the gas tap

• Close the shut-off valves on the gas pipes, if possible and if their location is known, to prevent further gas leakage

Warn flatmates

• Warn flatmates or neighbours
• Important: To avoid sparks, do not ring the doorbell – knock instead

Please call the on-call service

As soon as possible after leaving the house, call the on-call service on 0180 1624 642 .