Gas Outages and Leaks

Know what to do in case of a gas outage or leak

Natural gas is reliable and safe when used properly and equipment is properly maintained and inspected by a qualified contractor.

Learn to recognize a natural gas leak

If you suspect a leak, immediately call 800-895-2999 or 911 in an emergency.

Use your senses to recognize a potentially dangerous natural gas leak:

1. Smell: Natural gas is odorless except for the harmless odorant we add to help you detect a leak. The added odorant, called mercaptan, has a sulfur-like smell, similar to a rotten-egg.
2. Hear: A leak may produce a noise that ranges from next to nothing to a slight hissing or blowing sound to a loud roar - depending on the leak’s size and pressure.
3. See: A leak may cause dust, dirt or debris to fly, or create blowing or continuous bubbling movement in water. It also can cause a spot of dead or discolored vegetation in an otherwise green area.

Know how to respond to a natural gas leak

When an odor is persistent or seems to be everywhere, or it seems to linger longer than normal for your appliance’s operation, these could be signs of a gas leak inside your home or with an outside line.

Upon detecting such an odor, immediately get everyone out of your home or building, move a safe distance away and then call for help. Because an electric spark can ignite an explosion, remember to follow these tips:

1. Do not turn on or turn off electrical switches.
2. Avoid using electric appliances such as garage door openers or telephones of any type.
3. Do not start up or shut down motor vehicles or any other electrical equipment.
4. Do not strike a match. Avoid open flames or other ignition sources.
5. Move to a location a safe distance away from your home when the odor is outdoors.
6. Call Xcel Energy at 800-895-2999 or 911 in an emergency.
7. Stay away until Xcel Energy or the emergency responders have told you it’s safe to return.