Natural gas escapes can be very dangerouse. Recently, on the news, there has been some high profile gas escapes that have resulted in explosions and unfortunatly fatalities.
Accidental carbon monoxide poisoning leads to 50 deaths a year. A silent killer, the gas often takes its victims by surprise as it is invisible to the eye.
Fortunately, cases like this can be avoided with proper gas safety. When it comes to that, you never want to cut corners.
But what does that mean exactly? How can you be sure that there is no gas leak?
As it turns out, there are a number of things that you can do to ensure the safety of your home. Want to learn more? If so, be sure to keep reading!
Say Yes Only to Qualified Engineers
There are many companies that offer gas services, however, not all are legally qualified. Their fees might be cheaper, but it comes with a price—a greater risk to your safety.
Would you really want to put you and your family in harm’s way just to save some money?
It’s never worth it.
Always find a qualified gas engineer. Not sure where to look? The Gas Safe Register is a great resource.
In the UK, all gas specialists have to be listed on the site, by law, in order to work on gas appliances.
Familiarize Yourself with Gas Leak Symptoms
It’s important that you know what the signs of a gas leak are.
There Will Be a Distinctive Smell in the Air
More often than not, there will be an odor—one that resembles rotten eggs or sulphur. The cause of this gas leak smell? Mercaptan.
Don’t worry, it’s a harmless chemical. It’s simply added to natural gas as a warning smell. It makes it much easier to detect leaks.
You Might Hear a Hissing Sound
Use your ears. There might be a high-pitched hissing sound around a leak.
Turn off the gas supply and vacate the premises immediately if you hear the sound near the gas meter.
What to Do If There Is a Gas Leak
Stop what you are doing immediately. Do not turn on any appliances, light switches or appliances. Do not use your phone.
If you can do it safely, turn off your gas supply at your emergancy control valve, this is located next to your gas meter. Open your doors and windows to allow fresh air in and leave the house before calling the national gas emergency services number. The number you should call is 0800 111 999, they will send an engineer round quickly to make safe.
Gas Leak Dangers: What Else Can Happen?
Gas leaks can lead to other problems if left unchecked.
Fires and Explosions
Gas leaks are an extreme fire hazard. Explosions can occur if the gas mixes with oxygen and ignites.
Between 2010 and 2016, there were 141 incidents in the UK. Fortunately, however, fatalities are rare.
Risk of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
If the gas burns incompletely, it can also lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. The symptoms are generally similar to those of gas poisoning.
Some of the most common signs include abdominal pain, dizziness, chest pain, nausea, headache, and red lips.
It’s not uncommon for carbon monoxide poisoning to require emergency care. In some cases, it can even be fatal.
Checking Your Home For Gas Leaks
If you use gas appliances, it’s absolutely vital that you have them checked regulaly by a qualified gas safe registered engineer. It’s not just good practice, it can be a matter of life and death.
Always remember though. Never light a candle or a cigarette if there is even a slight chance of a gas leak. Similarly, avoid flipping on the light switch.
Have a Professional Perform a Gas Safety Check
Not sure whether or not everything in the house is up to par? Perhaps it’s been a while since your last service?
Why risk it? Gas leaks are no joke. Consider hiring a professional for a gas safety check.
Feel free to contact us about our services. Our entire team is fully licensed and ready to help!