Natural gases from your appliances have the added chemical mercaptan, making the gas have an unpleasant odor so you can detect it easier. If you notice the smell in your home, it’s possible that you have a gas leak near your stove, water heater, or another appliance.  Check the burners on a gas stove to make sure they’re completely turned off. Immediately turn off the gas supply line and leave the building if there is a strong odor. You may be able to hear the gas leaking from loose connections. If you hear a faint hiss or whistle that you haven’t heard before, walk around your home and listen for the change in volume. When it gets louder, you’re closer to the possible leak. The gas makes a hiss or whistle when it escapes through a tight space, so not all gas leaks will make a noise. Gas stoves should have blue flames, meaning that they have enough oxygen for the gas to completely combust. When there are yellow or orange flames, the natural gas isn’t completely burning and could be contributing to a gas leak. Gas stoves may have orange or yellow flames when they’re first lit. Only be concerned if the flame is consistently orange or yellow. While natural gas is usually colorless, a leak may stir up dust and make a small cloud near your pipes. Keep your eyes open for any mist or clouds that you can’t account for otherwise. Plants need carbon dioxide in order to survive, and gas leaks can limit the amount your plants get. If you notice your plants wilting or yellowing even though you still care for them regularly, you may have gas leaking into your home. Keep plants in areas in your home where gas leaks are common, like in your kitchen or close to a fireplace. Compare your gas bills over a 2-3 month period to see if there’s been a significant change in cost. If you notice a spike in your bill, contact your utility company first to make sure your bill is correct. If everything is right on their end, let them know you may have a gas leak in your home. Keep in mind any changes in your lifestyle. For example, if it’s winter and you’ve been using your furnace more, your gas prices may be higher because of it. Compare bills from the same time of year to see a more accurate change. Breathing natural gas or carbon monoxide limits the amount of oxygen your body receives. If you start experiencing body pains, headaches, lightheadedness, or nausea for no apparent reason, check your gas lines and your appliances to see if there are any problems. Other symptoms may include, but are not limited to, reduced appetite, difficulty breathing, fatigue, and eye and throat irritation.
ابحث في منزلك عن رائحة تشبه البيض الفاسد أو الكبريتيك. استمع إلى صوت الهسهسة أو الصفير بالقرب من الأجهزة أو الأنابيب. تحقق من لون نيران الموقد إذا كانت برتقالية أو صفراء بدلًا من اللون الأزرق. تحقق من وجود غبار أو سحابة بيضاء تتحرك بالقرب من خطوط الغاز. افحص حالة نباتاتك بالمنزل إذا تعرض أيًا منها للذبول. تحقق من فاتورة الغاز لمعرفة ما إذا كانت أعلى من المعتاد. لاحظ أيّة تغيرات جسدية تطرأ عليك وأنت في المنزل.