Natural gas and propane gas are used in millions of households in Missouri and throughout the United States for cooking and heating. Natural gas and propane gas are highly combustible and can be a deadly hazard if the gas is ignited. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), natural gas and propane gas home fires between 2000 and 2004 resulted in 66 deaths and over 400 injuries. On average, NFPA estimates that there are about 2,410 natural gas home fires and 1,390 propane gas fires every year.
Gas leaks may occur outside the home when there is damage to the pipelines during construction work, landscaping or other repairs. As a safety feature gas is odorized with a strong smell like rotten eggs so that leaks can be detected by consumers. Unfortunetly sometimes the gas is not odorized or the odrant can be removed as gas passes through soil or sewer systems.
In Missouri, such work should not be done until utitlity lines are marked to prevent rupturing the lines. This can be done through the Missouri One Call System. Excavators, utilities, and homeowners should call 1-800-DIG-RITE (344-7483) before starting any work. To learn more you can also go to the Missouri One Call website http://www.mo1call.com/ .
Natural gas and propane gas may leak into homes through defective gas control valves and the defective flexible gas connectors. Common causes of gas explosions include: defective gas control valves, leaking tanks, leaking hoses, defective gas connectors, negligent maintenance, and improper installation. You can help prevent such events by notifying the gas company if you smell gas, or see obviously worn or defective equipment.
If you smell gas get out of the house, call the gas company and if they can't respond call local emergency services for help. It is also a good idea to know the location of your gas supply shut off and have tools to shut the gas off if you have a leak.
Natural & Propane Gas Safety
September 7, 2009
