There’s a reason why gas smells so distinct—it’s meant to get your attention. Whether you’re cooking dinner or doing laundry, that sharp, rotten-egg scent can be alarming. And it should be. Even a small leak can be dangerous. But knowing what to do (and what not to do) can keep you, your family, and your home safe.
First, Stay Calm But Act Quickly
It’s normal to panic when you smell gas, but staying calm helps you think clearly. You need to take swift action without triggering a spark or causing a bigger issue. Before doing anything else, follow these golden rules:
- Never light candles, cigarettes, or matches.
- Don’t turn on or off any electrical switches or use your phone.
- If your car is parked close by, don’t start it.
These everyday actions can create a spark that could ignite the gas.
Ventilate the Area Immediately
Open all the doors and windows to let the gas escape. Fresh air will help dilute the gas concentration in your home. If the smell is coming from a particular room, such as the kitchen or laundry, get the airflow going in that area first.
You don’t need to wait around to smell the gas disappearing. Once windows and doors are open, move to the next step.
Turn Off the Gas Supply (If Safe)
Most homes have a gas meter with a shut-off valve. If you can safely reach it without entering a confined space or flipping switches, go ahead and turn it off.
- The valve is usually located outside the home.
- Turn the handle a quarter turn so it’s perpendicular to the pipe—this means it’s now closed.
If you’re unsure or don’t feel confident, skip this step and head straight outside.
Evacuate Everyone
Don’t try to investigate further. Evacuate everyone, including pets, from the house immediately. Go to a safe distance away from the property and do not re-enter until professionals have given the all-clear.
It’s tempting to grab valuables or turn things off on your way out. Don’t. Your priority is getting to safety as quickly as possible.
Call a Licensed Gas Professional
Once you’re at a safe distance, call a licensed gas fitter or your local gas provider. Don’t use your mobile inside the house—wait until you’re safely outside and away from any potential leak.
Avoid using online booking forms or email in these situations. This is an emergency, and you need to speak with someone directly.
Notify Emergency Services (If Required)
If the smell is strong, you suspect a significant leak, or you can hear hissing near a gas appliance or meter, it’s a good idea to call emergency services. In Australia, you can dial 000 in the event of a fire, explosion, or suspected danger to life or property.
It’s better to be safe and overcautious than to risk an accident.
Don’t Turn Anything Back On Just Yet
Even after the smell fades, don’t flip switches or turn on appliances right away. Wait for a professional to inspect the area and confirm it’s safe. They’ll usually test for residual gas and check the integrity of your appliances and connections.
By the time you’ve followed all the above steps, you’ll have likely realised how dangerous gas leaks at home can be—not just for your family’s health, but also for your property.
Common Causes of Gas Leaks
While gas systems are generally safe when installed and maintained correctly, leaks can still happen. Some common culprits include:
- Old or damaged gas lines: Wear and tear, as well as rust, can lead to tiny holes in the piping.
- Loose fittings: Over time, the seals between gas lines and appliances can weaken.
- Faulty appliances: Stoves, heaters, or water systems may develop internal faults or issues with their burners.
- Improper installations: DIY gas fitting jobs or unlicensed work can often create risks.
Regular inspections by licensed professionals can help prevent these issues from escalating.
Signs of a Gas Leak (Beyond the Smell)
Smelling gas is the most obvious sign, but not the only one. Here are other indicators that something might be wrong:
- Whistling or hissing noises close to gas lines
- Unusual hues of pilot lights (yellow or orange rather than blue)
- Plants that are dead or withering next to gas lines
- Exceptionally high gas prices
- Indoor headaches, lightheadedness, or nausea
If you notice any of these symptoms, especially in combination, treat them as an emergency.
Prevention Tips You Can Follow Today
- Schedule annual maintenance for all gas appliances.
- Install a gas detector in your kitchen or laundry.
- Know where your shut-off valve is located and ensure it’s easily accessible.
- Avoid DIY gas work; always use licensed professionals.
- Teach everyone in your household (including older kids) what to do if they smell gas.
Being prepared doesn’t mean being paranoid—it just means you’re taking the safety of your home seriously.
Safety First, Always!
When it comes to gas, there’s no such thing as being too careful. A faint smell could be nothing—or it could be the warning sign of something far more serious. That’s why it’s crucial to act fast, follow the right steps, and leave the rest to the experts.
If you’re looking to upgrade to a safe gas appliance or want to have your current setup professionally checked, reach out to the team at Plus Gas. We’re committed to helping households stay safe, efficient, and worry-free.
