Smell Gas?

Gas leaks can happen anywhere and be caused by a number of reasons: excavation damage, material defects, corrosion, worker error or events of nature. Regardless of the cause, it’s extremely important to know how to recognize the signs of a leak. Despite the fact that JEA adds a distinctive odor to natural gas, your sense of smell should not be the only thing you rely on for detecting gas leaks. Knowing what to look for and what to do in the event of a leak is key to a quick and easy response.

• Smell – Gas has a strong odor resembling rotten eggs, a skunk or a dead animal
• See – Gas leaks cause areas of bubbling water, dirt blowing up from the ground, dead plants, or sinkholes/exposed pipes
• Listen – Gas escaping from piping or equipment causes a hissing sound

If you smell gas or suspect a leak:

GET OUT

Get everyone out of the building immediately and leave the door open but remember to extinguish any smoking materials and other open flames

MOVE AWAY

Find a safe area away from and upwind of the suspected leak

SAFELY CALL

After leaving the area, in another location or neighbor’s house far from the suspected leak, call JEA at 731-422-7500 or 911

• DO NOT use telephones or cell phones as they could create an ignition source
• DO NOT operate lights, appliances, flashlights, or pull electric plugs from outlets
• DO NOT smoke or strike a match, lighter or use any item with an open flame
• DO NOT start any motor vehicle in the area of the potential leak
• DO NOT attempt to find the source of or stop the leak
• DO NOT attempt to extinguish a gas fire