City of Mesa
Home MenuIdentifying a Natural Gas Leak
Detect a Gas Leak with Your Senses
Natural gas is colorless and odorless in its natural state, so an odor is added to help detect its presence. A natural gas leak may be present if you:
- SMELL an odor similar to rotten eggs.
- HEAR a hissing or unusual sound from a pipeline, appliance, or natural gas meter.
- SEE dirt or water blowing into the air, unexplained dead or dying plants or grass, or standing water continuously bubbling.
If you suspect a gas leak, follow these steps:
- Leave the area immediately and go to a safe location.
- Call 911 and our gas emergency line at 480-644-4277.
- Do not turn on or off electrical switches, ring a doorbell, smoke, or use matches or lighters in the presence of the gas smell because an electric spark could ignite the gas, causing an explosion.
*If you have lost your sense of smell or it is badly diminished methane detectors can be installed to alert you when there is methane gas in the air. There are various types and models of these devices available to meet your needs. Be sure to carefully follow all alarm installation and use instructions to ensure the proper functioning and reliability of your methane detector.