Natural gas safety tips for a warm and worry-free season

As the colder months approach, Utilities Kingston reminds residents to prioritize safety when using natural gas for heating, cooking, and powering appliances, emphasizing the importance of carbon monoxide awareness. 

“Natural gas is a safe fuel when used properly, but it’s important to recognize the signs of a gas leak and know how to act quickly in an emergency,” says James Ingram, Manager of Gas Operations at Utilities Kingston. “Taking a few simple precautions can help ensure the safety of your family this season.” 

Understanding the risks 

Although natural gas leaks are rare due to stringent safety standards and regular maintenance programs, it’s crucial to understand the potential risks. 

The most immediate and dangerous threat of a natural gas leak is the risk of explosion or fire. If the gas leaks into an enclosed space and comes into contact with a spark, flame, or electrical device, it can ignite, causing an explosion or fire. Also, prolonged exposure to low levels of natural gas can cause dizziness, nausea, headaches, and difficulty breathing. High concentrations of gas can be fatal. 

How to detect a natural gas leak

The most common way to detect a gas leak is by noticing unusual smells. Although natural gas is odourless, a distinctive sulphur scent - often described as rotten eggs - is added to help identify leaks. You may also hear a hissing sound or notice dead vegetation near gas lines, which can indicate a leak.  

If you suspect a natural gas leak, it's important to act quickly and cautiously. Leave the area immediately, and while exiting, avoid any actions that could create a spark, such as turning lights on or off, using cell phones, lighters, matches, or smoking. Once you are safe outside, call your gas provider. If you're a Utilities Kingston natural gas customer, call us at 613-546-1181, available 24/7.   

The hidden risk: Carbon Monoxide (CO)

While natural gas itself is not harmful, incomplete combustion of gas, often due to appliance malfunction or poor ventilation, can produce carbon monoxide (CO), which is colourless, odourless, tasteless, and deadly. High levels of CO in the home can lead to poisoning, with symptoms like dizziness, confusion, loss of consciousness, and even death.  

To protect your household, learn more about carbon monoxide safety and ensure you have a working CO alarm. Test your alarm regularly, change the batteries as needed and replace it in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions. 

Preventing gas leaks and CO buildup starts with proper maintenance. Schedule an annual inspection of your natural gas appliances through the services of a TSSA- registered contractor technician. Annual inspections can help spot potential issues before they become serious.  

Learn more about how to keep your home and family safe at UtilitiesKingston.com.