When there’s a gas leak emergency, there isn’t much you can do but get everyone outside in a hurry. For this reason, it’s always important to make gas leak prevention a part of your home or building’s routine maintenance. Fortunately, you can prevent these accidents by conducting regular inspections, using high-quality materials, getting the gas lines inspected by professionals, and ensuring that everyone is safe.
1. Inspect Appliances Regularly
Inspect your appliances regularly to ensure they’re in good condition and working properly. Replace any damaged or old parts, and make sure there are no leaks or holes. Pay particular attention to the rubber hoses on your appliances because they’re more likely to deteriorate over time than other parts. Sometimes, they can even enter your home through holes in your basement and attic, giving off a strong odor. Also, check your flooring for holes or gaps that could lead to a gas leak.
2. Be Sure to Use Durable Pipes
Use high-quality, corrosion-resistant materials in the construction of your pipes. Pipes that aren’t corrosion-resistant can stain your appliances and leave them with a pungent smell. The smell comes from the gas that passes through the rusted pipes. If your pipes are rusted, then you should get them replaced. In addition, don’t drill holes in your pipes or put them in contact with hot surfaces.
3. Guarantee Gas Safety in Your Home
You mustn’t light your gas appliances while there are any gas leaks or while they’re burning. If you can’t see your appliances, then check the pilot lights. If you see any signs of a leak, turn off your gas and call a plumber.
4. Have Your Gas Lines Inspected
Your gas lines should be inspected every year by a professional. Have your plumber inspect the pipe for any holes, rust, and corrosion and ensure it’s properly installed. If you live in an older building, contact the gas company to ensure the pipe has been properly maintained or updated. If the gas company hasn’t maintained it, they may not be liable if something happens.
5. Don’t Play with Light Switches
Don’t play with the lights in your house or building. If there’s a gas leak, you may light a flame that could spread the gas throughout your home or building. The same goes for pilot lights. Be careful about pilot lights because they can easily ignite. Always be careful not to knock them out or light a match near them.
6. Use Safety Equipment
If you have gas appliances in your home, it’s important to use safety equipment. Always keep a fire extinguisher near your gas appliances, and you can even put a fire blanket in your home’s kitchen so you can quickly put out a fire.
7. Know the Warning Signs
You can prevent a gas leak emergency by knowing the warning signs. If you smell a strong odor of gas, you should take precautions. If you see a large plume of brown smoke, you should immediately call the gas company. Shut off your gas, and get everyone out of the house or building.
Conclusion
Gas leaks are scary, but they’re also dangerous. If you smell gas, you need to take immediate action to get yourself and your family to safety. When a gas leak emergency occurs, the best thing you can do is follow the procedures you’ve learned. Also, you should get in touch with your gas company immediately to let them know there’s a leak.
Professor Plumb is a veteran-owned plumbing service in Columbiana, AL. With over 20 years of experience, our plumbing services, installation, and repairs are the best in Alabama. Whether it’s a clogged drain, a leaky faucet, or a new water heater installation, we can take care of it for you. Choose experience and professional plumbing with Professor Plumb! If you need gas fitter and installation services in Columbiana, AL, we’ve got you covered! Call us at (205) 583-7062 for assistance!