Only Your Nose Can Detect a Natural Gas Odor Natural gas has no scent of its own. The natural gas "odor" is actually added for safety reasons to aid in the detection of a gas leak. The "rotten egg" smell helps you detect even the tiniest gas leak. A natural gas leak can be extremely dangerous, so use the following advice when you smell natural gas.

Gas Leaks, Odors and Emergencies (24 hours a day): 911 or 1-800-231-5325

If you smell a faint odor

Look for the source. Check pilot lights on your furnace, water heater or store. Re-light pilot lights only if you're familiar with the process; otherwise, call us at the number above. Make sure the burners on your stove are completely turned off. If you can't find the source of the odor, call the number above.

If you smell a strong odor

Leave the home or building immediately and leave the door open behind you to allow air to enter. Call the emergency number above using a neighbor's phone or a cellular phone. If you detect an odor outdoors, leave the area immediately and call the number. When leaving a home or building, do not use any electrical devices that might create spark, such as light switches, flashlights, telephones, and computers.