If you suspect a gas leak at your commercial property—usually signaled by the distinct smell of sulfur or "rotten eggs"—your priority must be the safety of everyone on site.
Take these immediate steps to prevent a dangerous situation from escalating:
- Evacuate the Building Immediately – Get everyone out of the building or mobile home community as quickly and calmly as possible. Do not delay to collect belongings.
- Do Not Use Electronics or Lights – Avoid flipping any switches, turning on or off any lights, using phones, or operating appliances. Even a tiny spark can ignite gas.
- Do Not Operate Valves or Appliances – Do not attempt to locate the leak or turn off the gas yourself inside the building; leave this to professionals and the utility company.
- Call Your Utility Company and 911 from a Safe Distance – Once you are well away from the building, contact the gas company and emergency services immediately to report the leak.
- Ventilate if Safe to Do So – If you can safely open a window or door on your way out without delay or using a light switch, do so to help ventilate the area.
Your safety, as well as the safety of your employees and customers, comes first. Evacuate immediately and call for help once you’re at a safe distance. Do not go back inside until the authorities give the all-clear.