PSE&G Important natural gas safety information

Educate your family about natural gas leaks.

Natural gas is a clear and efficient fuel source used safely in millions of American homes and businesses. But as with any flammable material, leaks that do occur can be dangerous.

PSE&G wants you to be aware of how to detect a gas leak and what to do if you suspect a leak in or around your home.

If you think there is a leak:

*Smell: Don’t take any chances. If you think you smell a gas leak or see other signs, assume it is a leak.

*Leave: Leave your home immediately and get as far away as you can. If you notice the odor outside, leave the area where you suspect the leak is coming from.

*Call: Once you are in a safe environment, at least 350 feet away from the suspected gas leak area-call 911 or PSE&G at 1-800-880-PSEG (7734)

Protect your family against carbon monoxid.

What is carbon monoxide?

You can’t see or smell carbon monoxide (CO). Small amounts of CO are in the air whenever fuel (such as oil, gas or coal) is burned. These amounts are usually not harmful. However, when fuel-burning appliances and equipment are not working properly, too much CO can build up in the air and cause CO poisoning.

Symptoms of CO poisoning:

Symptoms can occur immediately or gradually after long-term exposure.

*Headache

*Weakness

*Dizziness

*Vomiting

*Nausea

*Confusion

If you suspect CO poisoning:

*IF you think there are high levels of CO in your home, go outside!

*If there is a medical emergency, such as someone falling unconscious, take the person outside to fresh air and call 911.

*Call PSE&G’s emergency service line at 1-800-880-PSEG (7734). Wait outside until help arrives.

How to prevent CO poisoning:

*Install carbon monoxide detectors in every area of your house. Regularly check the batteries.

*Make sure that all fuel-burning appliances are maintained and are operating properly.

*Do not allow vehicles or any gasoline powered engine to idle in a garage or enclosed space. CO can drift inside and create a hazardous situation.

How to know if there is a leak:

Because natural gas is odorless and colorless, a distinctive odor, like rotten eggs, is added to it to help in the detection of leaks. Make sure everyone in your home is familiar with this odor.

There are reliable ways to detect a gas leak:

*Hearing a hissing sound.

*Seeing bubbling in puddles.

*Smelling the odor of rotten eggs.

A commitment to safety:

PSE&G is deeply committed to the safety of our customers, our employees and the communities we serve. As your natural gas provider, we want to make sure you are prepared in the event of a gas emergency. Share this information with everyone in your household and keep it in a handy place to refer to quickly if you suspect a problem.

Visit our website for information about gas safety, including:

*Proper storage of flammables.

*Safe digging around your home.

*Gas heaters & Appliance safety.

https://nj.pseg.com/safetyandreliability/gassafety/gashomesafety#:~:text=If%20you%20suspect%20there%20is,7734)%20from%20a%20safe%20distance.

pseg.com/GasSafety.

Disclosure: The blogger wants to note that this information was taken directly from the PSE&G pamphlet on gas safety and gives them full credit for the information. Please either call the above 1-800 number or reach them through their website for more information.