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Leak Recognition and Response

A gas leak is usually recognized by smell, sight, or sound.

SMELL - Natural gas is colorless and odorless. We add a distinctive, pungent odor so that you'll recognize it quickly (not all gas transmission pipelines are odorized).

SIGHT - You may see a white cloud, mist, fog, bubbles in standing water, blowing dust, or vegetation that appears to be dead or dying for no apparent reason.

SOUND - You may hear an unusual noise like roaring, hissing, or whistling.

What Should You Do if You Suspect a Gas Leak

  • MOVE to a safe environment.
  • CALL your Local Distribution Company immediately
  • DO NOT strike a match, use telephones, switch on/off appliances, lights, or even a flashlight in the area where you smell gas. These items can produce sparks that might ignite the gas and cause an explosion.
  • DO NOT assume someone else will report the condition.
  • Provide the exact location, including cross streets.
  • Let us know if sewer construction or digging activities are going on in the area.
To Report a Gas Leak

NORTHEAST GAS UTILITIES – LINKS TO INDIVIDUAL COMPANY SAFETY PAGES



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75 Second Avenue, Suite 510, Needham Heights, MA 02494-2824 | Phone 781.455.6800 | Fax 781.455.6828
1515 Broadway, 43rd floor | New York, NY 10036-5701 | Phone: 212.354.4790 | Fax 212.764.7014