Emergency Procedures
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 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.
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 911 immediately, then call Minnesota Energy Resources at 800-889-4970.
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 house 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, pallor
- Unconsciousness
If you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning:
- Get the victim out of the house and into fresh air immediately.
- Call 911 or emergency medical help at once.
- Get everyone else out of the house.
- 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.
