Quick Start Guide Natural Gas Utilities

SECTION 03: KEY SAFETY MESSAGES

• Store flammable products securely in closed cabinets with latches and away from appliances (see “Flammable Ignition Awareness” section, page 68). • If your utility shuts off your natural gas service, never turn it back on yourself. Only your local natural gas utility may restore gas service. • After a disaster, check for the odor of natural gas and other leak indicators before entering any structure or area. • If you suspect a natural gas leak, warn others, leave immediately, and call 911 and your local natural gas utility from a safe location.* • If natural gas appliance or equipment connections are damaged or defective, have them inspected and repaired only by a qualified technician. • Replace any appliance that has been submerged in water. * Industry practices vary regarding advising on a safe distance to evacuate for an inside gas odor. Company first responders typically establish a perimeter with the help of emergency response personnel based on known quantities of natural gas measured with a combustible gas indicator at the scene. The 2024 PHMSA Emergency Response Guidebook recommends 330 feet.

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Developing a Public Safety Communications Program