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Gas Leaks: A Silent Danger Lurking in Your Home

Gas leaks can be a silent danger that often goes unnoticed until it’s too late. Leaks from natural gas lines, appliances, and other sources can be deadly, causing fires, explosions, and carbon monoxide poisoning. Here are some important things to know about gas leaks and how to protect yourself and your loved ones.

$50,000 of home damage from a gas leak! They did not know the risk.

A leak from a faulty gas cooker severely injured a busy Northern Suburbs mother. Whilst she was preparing a meal the leak ignited; leading to a loud explosion heard hundreds of metres away. The unfortunate woman suffered severe burns to her face and chest although the other occupants were uninjured. The resulting fire and smoke caused $50,000 of damages to the kitchen and building.

Gas Risk Statistics

According to the most recent statistics by the Metropolitan Fire Service, there were 285 gas odour and leak incidents in Adelaide. There have been 20 gas incidents involving injury or property damage in the last 2 years. In addition to this, every year in Australia, 364 people are hospitalised with Carbon Monoxide poisoning. Gas leaks and carbon monoxide present very real risks to your home.

Sharpe Gas Technician Steve has years of experience installing and servicing gas appliances.

What are the common causes of gas leaks? There are a variety of situations that can cause an appliance to leak natural gas.

Either due to age or accidental damage, leaks can occur from cracked joints, corroded seals, faulty connections or broken valves in either the appliance or your gas piping.

Faulty pilot lights or ignitions can lead to gas escaping from your appliance.

You should be aware that leaks can build up without the tell-tale gas smell, and that major gas leaks don’t just pose a fire risk, they can kill you in your sleep like carbon monoxide.

Common Causes and Signs of Gas Leaks

Gas leaks can be caused by a variety of factors, including faulty gas appliances, damaged gas pipes or connections, and corroded seals or valves. It’s important to be aware of the signs of a gas leak, which can include a smell of gas (often described as a “rotten egg” smell), a hissing or whistling sound near a gas appliance or pipe, or dead or dying plants or vegetation near a gas line.

Risks of Gas Leaks

Gas leaks pose a serious risk of fire and explosion, as well as carbon monoxide poisoning and suffocation due to lack of oxygen. A gas leak can also cause significant damage to your home and property, leading to costly repairs and potentially putting your family in danger.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a deadly gas that is produced by the incomplete burning of fossil fuels, such as natural gas. Carbon monoxide poisoning can occur when gas leaks are present, leading to symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, and confusion. To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, it’s important to install carbon monoxide detectors in your home and to have them checked regularly to ensure they are functioning properly.

What to Do If You Suspect a Gas Leak

If you suspect a gas leak, it’s important to act quickly to protect yourself and others. Leave the area immediately and evacuate any people or pets from the building. Call your gas company or emergency services and do not turn on or off any electrical switches or appliances. Wait for trained professionals to arrive and assess the situation.

Prevention of Gas Leaks

Prevention is key when it comes to gas leaks. Regular maintenance and inspection of gas appliances and pipes can help to identify and address potential issues before they become serious. Gas appliances should be installed by licensed professionals, and it’s important to be aware of the risks and signs of gas leaks.

Conclusion

Gas leaks are a serious danger that should not be taken lightly. By being aware of the signs of gas leaks and taking appropriate action, you can help to protect yourself and your loved ones from the potentially deadly consequences of gas leaks. Remember to install carbon monoxide detectors and to take steps to prevent gas leaks in your home. 

Sharpe Gas Technician Steve has years of experience installing and servicing gas appliances. Call 8262 5000 for smoke detectors affordable solution.