Please call us immediately if you think you may have a natural gas emergency:

Natural Gas Leaks

Natural gas has a distinct, pungent odor so it is easy to detect. Leaking gas can cause an explosion and fire.

If you smell a weak odor of natural gas:

  • Open the windows.
  • Check for an extinguished pilot light.
  • If a pilot light is out, wait for the gas odor to go away before relighting.

If you can't find the source of the leak:

  • Get everyone out of the house immediately.
  • Do not use the telephone or a lighter.
  • Do not turn any electrical switches or lights on or off.
  • Go to a neighbor's house and call Minnesota Energy Resources immediately at 800-889-4970.

If you smell a strong odor of natural gas:

  • Open the windows.
  • Get everyone out of the house at once.
  • Do not use the telephone or a lighter.
  • Do not turn any electrical switches or lights on or off.
  • Go to a neighbor's house and call Minnesota Energy Resources immediately at 800-889-4970.

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Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Carbon monoxide is a dangerous gas produced when heating systems are not working correctly. You can't smell, taste or see carbon monoxide. That makes it very dangerous. Carbon monoxide can build up inside a building because of incomplete combustion and cause severe sickness and even death.

Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning:

  • Sudden flu-like illness
  • Dizziness, headaches, sleepiness
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Fluttering or throbbing heart beat
  • Cherry-red lips, unusually pale complexion
  • Unconsciousness

If you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning:

  • Get the victim out and into fresh air immediately.
  • Call 911 or emergency medical help at once.
  • Get everyone else out.
  • Open the windows.

To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning:

  • Be alert for the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning.
  • Install and maintain carbon monoxide detectors.
  • Never operate internal combustion engines indoors.
  • Never use a charcoal grill indoors.
  • Have all fuel-burning appliances, flues, vents, and chimneys checked regularly.

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