By What to Do If You Smell Gas
Emergency numbers to call
If you smell gas or suspect a gas leak, call the GRDF emergency line immediately — it is available 24/7 and free from a fixed line. You can also contact the fire brigade or the European emergency number from a mobile phone.
Save these numbers in your phone and keep them displayed somewhere visible at home (e.g. on the fridge) so you can act quickly in a critical situation.
Precautionary steps to take immediately
If you suspect a gas emergency, act quickly and in the following order:
Physical Symptoms to Look Out For
Mains gas is naturally odourless but is artificially scented to make it detectable. The first warning sign will be the characteristic smell of gas. However, other physical symptoms of gas exposure may be present, including:
- Feeling dizzy or lightheaded ;
- Nausea ;
- Headaches ;
- Vomiting ;
- Stomach pain ;
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.
If you or anyone in your home is experiencing these symptoms, seek immediate medical assistance. Exposure to carbon monoxide is a serious medical emergency that can lead to brain damage, vision loss, heart disease, or harm to unborn babies. Do not delay.
What Causes a Gas Leak?
A gas leak can have several causes, but is most commonly linked to faulty pipework, a defective appliance, or an appliance that has not been properly installed or maintained. This is why it is essential to have all gas appliances — cookers, boilers, gas fires — installed and serviced by a certified professional, and to carry out mandatory annual boiler maintenance.
Preventing a Gas Leak in Your Home
Install a carbon monoxide detector
A carbon monoxide detector is the first line of defence against gas-related accidents at home. Have it fitted near your boiler by a certified professional, and test the batteries regularly. Carbon monoxide is colourless and odourless — without a detector, exposure can go unnoticed until symptoms are severe.
Check gas appliances regularly
Look out for the following warning signs that a gas appliance may be faulty:
- The flame colour: it should always be blue — an orange or yellow flame signals incomplete combustion and potential carbon monoxide production ;
- The pilot light: it should remain on constantly and not keep going out ;
- Black or brown patches on or around the appliance (indicating soot) ;
- A smell of must or soot near the device ;
- Excessive condensation on nearby windows.
Have all gas appliances serviced once a year by a certified professional to ensure the safety of your household. If you ever suspect an appliance is not working correctly, stop using it immediately and arrange for a professional inspection.