If natural gas is allowed to escape into the atmosphere, there is an immediate danger of fire, explosion, or asphyxiation. For this reason, natural gas, which is normally odorless, is given an odor to aid in detection of leaks through the distinctive smell. If you smell this odor, ACT FAST!

• Check all gas taps and turn them off.
  If necessary, turn off the gas main. The shutoff valve is usually next to the meter. Using a wrench, give the valve a quarter turn in either direction to close the flow in the pipe.
• Open all windows immediately!
• If the gas odor remains strong, a gas main may be broken. EVACUATE THE AREA IMMEDIATELY!
• DO NOT TURN ANY ELECTRICAL SWITCHES ON OR OFF! ELIMINATE ALL OPEN FLAMES!
• AFTER EVACUATION, CALL EMERGENCY 9-1-1 AND REPORT THE LEAK.
• Do not return to the area until the fire department and/or the gas company announces that it is safe.
• Once the gas is off, let the gas company turn it back on.