Emergency! Everything You Need to Know About Gas Leaks

Don’t panic! Keep yourself well-informed and do not react impulsively to an emergency situation.

Gas leaks can prove to be lethal due to their highly destructive nature.  Hence, it is absolutely necessary for you to know when there is a gas leak, so that you can take control of the situation.

Being aware of the signs of a gas leakage is the first line of defense.

As per the Gas Safe Register (GSR), over the last few years, every one in six households that were under the investigation of GSR possessed an appliance that could pose a serious threat. Also gas-related incidents led to a casualty of 1000 injuries and 31 deaths. Keep these certain handy tips in mind to prevent gas leaks before they erupt into something uncontrollable.

The possible causes of gas leaks

Gas pipes often tend to corrode or deteriorate in quality over time and hence need to be properly maintained. Maybe your house needs a water heater replacementin Germantown of poorly fitted kitchen appliances such as boilers and cookers.

Also pay close attention to broken hose and seals as gas can leak into your homes from there.  If you shift to a new apartment, chances are that the gas-based appliances in there do not have a proper gas certificate and can aggravate the situation.

Detection of gas leaks

Lack of attention and carelessness on your part can lead to a gas leak but you need to stay on your guard and take prior action.

The most apparent identification is the strong, foul smell of gas. Other possible signs to look out for include:

• Your gas rings changing color to orange or yellow instead of the usual crisp blue
• The flickering of your boiler’s pilot light
• A hissing or blowing sound.
• The presence of smoky soot or scorching on the outside of your electronic appliances
• Your windows start to become foggier as condensed drops of moisture start to accumulate on your windows.

Course of action if you have a gas leak

As soon as you feel that something is fishy, do the following:

• The gas supply needs to be cut off: Know where your gas valve is beforehand and turn off the gas supply.
  

• Increase ventilation: Open all the doors and windows from where a potential air circulation can take place, to avoid accumulation of fumes and suffocation

• DO NOT use electrical equipment: This includes your mobile phone too! Do not attempt to flick any switches to avoid sparks.

Finally, do not attempt to fix any leaks yourself and instead contact us as your most trusted plumbers in Columbia MD. Our emergency services will reach you in minimal time to take care of the situation.