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Natural Gas Safety
Even though natural gas is a safe and efficient source of energy in your home, there are certain
safety issues you should be aware of. Please review this web page for tips on natural gas safety.
Leak Detection - Indoors
In its most pure state, natural gas has no odor. That's why we add a chemical with a very distinctive odor.
In fact, it smells pretty bad (like rotten eggs). Make sure that everyone in your family is aware of this.
If you or any member of your family smells gas, LEAVE THE PREMISES IMMEDIATELY, and call Vectren at
1-800-227-1376 from an area other than the gas leak. Even though natural gas has a very limited range of
flammability, you are not equipped to determine whether there has been a dangerous build-up.
Leak Detection - Outdoors
Our underground pipelines are the safest and most-efficient method available for delivering natural
gas to your home. Larger lines across the state are clearly marked with signs so you can be aware
they're in the area. The lines are designed, installed, tested and maintained to meet every federal,
state and industry code and regulation. And they're constantly monitored and inspected to locate and
fix potential problems in advance.
If you're near a natural gas pipeline, these tips can help you spot a natural gas leak outdoors:
- If you see dirt or water blowing into the air, or notice standing water continuously bubbling,
there may be a leak. You also can look for discolored vegetation (like brown patches in a green field),
or you might notice dry spots in a moist field.
- If you smell an odor that has the distance smell of rotten eggs, there may be a leak.
- If you hear a loud roaring or high-pitched hissing sound, there may be a leak.
If you detect a leak outdoors:
- Leave the area immediately.
- Call Vectren Energy Delivery at 1-800-227-1376 from somewhere other than the area of the leak.
- Alert your friends and neighbors to avoid the area.
Call Before You Dig
Even jobs that seem simple, such as planting a tree or installing a fence or a deck, can become
dangerous and costly if an underground utility line is damaged.
Simply call one of these state agencies at least two full working days in advance to have your utility
lines marked at no cost. It's a simple call that can avoid serious accidents.
Indiana customers
Indiana Underground Plant Protection Service (IUPPS)
1-800-382-5544
Ohio customers
Ohio Utilities Protection Service (OUPS)
1-800-362-2764
Furnace Clean & Check
Properly functioning natural gas appliances produce no harmful exhaust. One that is dirty, damaged or has an
inadequate supply of air for combustion has the potential to create harmful gases like carbon monoxide. This can
cause serious health problems and even be fatal. Symptoms from exposure are often the same as those from the flu.
They can include headaches, nausea, coughing, dizziness, weakness or similar symptoms.
Most HVAC dealers have a program that assures a thorough furnace check. These include:
- check vent pipes for cracks, leaks and sufficient venting
- inspect internal components for excessive wear or damage and replace or repair as necessary
- make proper internal adjustments for maximum efficiency
- clean internal and external areas including the burner chamber, heat exchanger, vents, registers and thermostat
- check venting for Natural Gas water heater
Contact your heating and water heating professional for more information.
Carbon Monoxide Safety
Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a toxic gas produced by the incomplete burning of different fuels including gasoline,
kerosene, wood, coal, propane, natural gas and fuel oil. High concentrations of CO can cause illness and
excessive levels can be fatal.
If you suspect that someone may be experiencing CO poisoning in your home, call 911 or your local Fire
Department immediately!
Know the Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Breathing CO may include the following flu-like symptoms:
headaches
nausea
fatigue
dizziness
drowsiness
burning eyes
irregular breathing
confusion
disorientation
unconsciousness
Preventing Carbon Monoxide in Your Home
A few simple tips can help keep you and your family safe.
- Make sure all appliances are properly installed and maintained.
- Have a heating professional clean and check your heating and venting every year.
- Between inspections, look for signs of water collecting near a burner or vent. Also check vents,
flue pipes and chimneys for corrosion or blockage.
- Never run a vehicle or fuel-burning equipment in an enclosed place.
- Install CO detectors to add an extra measure of safety. They can be purchased at most discount
and hardware stores.
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