Plugged In 2016 Episode 12: Gas Safety Podcast

Con Edison

This is a gas safety podcast with Con Edison's senior vice-president of gas operations and Chris Gallo, Con Edison's senior manager with customer outreach. Smell Gas. Act Fast. Gas leaks can create fires and explosions. It's important that you and your family know how to recognize a gas leak and what to do if you suspect a leak. How to Recognize a Gas Leak —A distinctive, strong odor similar to rotten eggs See—A white cloud, mist, fog, bubbles in standing water, blowing dust, or vegetation that appears to be dead or dying for no reason Hear—Roaring, hissing, or whistling Why Natural Gas Smells Like Rotten Eggs Natural gas doesn’t actually smell like anything. That’s why we add a chemical called methyl mercaptan (methanethiol) to natural gas so you’ll be able to smell it in case of a leak. Mercaptan has a very distinct and unpleasant odor that many people compare to the smell of rotten eggs. What to Do If You Think There Is a Gas Leak If the odor is strong, leave immediately and take others with you. If you are outside, leave the area immediately. Don’t light a match or smoke, turn appliances or lights on or off (including flashlights), use a telephone, or start a car. Doing so can produce sparks that might cause the gas to explode. Find a phone away from the area and call 911 or 1-800-75-CONED (1-800-752-6633). You can report leaks anonymously. Don’t assume someone else will report it. National Grid customers should call 1-718-643-4050. Follow directions from emergency responders who are on site.