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It’s important for you to do your part to make a safe fuel even
safer. Here are some DOs and DON'Ts for natural
gas safety.
DO:
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Use your nose. If you ever detect even a small amount of the
odor of natural gas in the air, don’t stay—get away. Then
contact your natural gas provider. If you don’t know that
number, dial 9-1-1.
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Look
for the blue flame. If pilot lights and burners have a steady,
blue flame, they are operating correctly. (Decorative gas fire
logs are the only exception. Their flame is usually yellow.)
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Have all gas appliances, furnaces, vents, flues, chimneys and
gas lines in your home or business inspected every year or two
by qualified industry professionals.
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Keep the areas around all appliances and equipment clean and
unblocked to allow for proper air flow.
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Follow manufacturer instructions for the care and use of gas
appliances and equipment.
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Make sure there is at least one multipurpose fire extinguisher
in your home or place of business.
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Review these natural gas safety tips regularly with ALL family
members and coworkers.
DON’T:
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Ever let small children play with or near natural gas
appliances or pipes, even the knobs on the oven or cooktop.
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Use your stove or oven for anything other than cooking (for
instance, to heat your home, under any circumstances.
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Move or install a gas appliance or change the connector in any
way without professional assistance.
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Use a space heater UNTIL you are sure it has been vented
properly. If using a vent-free heater, make sure the automatic
cut-off switch is operational.
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Install a gas appliance yourself, unless you area a qualified
contractor. Instead, you should always seek professional
assistance.
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Ever store household chemicals or combustible materials near
gas appliances.
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Above all, don’t forget to learn what to do if you ever smell
natural gas in the air: SMELL GAS? ACT FAST!
IT’S BEST TO BE SAFE: If you smell gas RIGHT NOW—don't
touch or turn off your computer—leave the area! After you go
someplace away from the odor, call your natural gas provider. If
you don't know that number, dial 9-1-1.
Natural gas safety tips provided by
www.SafeGas.org, and the Georgia Public Service Commission.
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