Smell Gas?
Natural gas smells bad on purpose. That “rotten egg” smell is the smell of natural gas. If you think you smell gas, leave the area immediately and then call PGW at 215-235-1212 from a safe location.
Also if You Smell Gas:
- Do not use electrical devices including cell phones which may cause a spark and ignite the gas.
- Do not use an open flame, matches or lighters.
- Do not try to locate the source of the gas leak.
- Do not try to shut off any natural gas valves or gas appliances.
- Do not start vehicles.
- Do not re-enter the building or return to the area until a PGW employee or a qualified utility representative says it is safe to do so.
- Do not put out the flames if natural gas ignites.
Leaks, Odors, And Emergency Tips
Think Safe, Be Safe - PGW cares about your safety. Read this quick list of important safety tips to follow around your home.
- Have your furnace inspected every year and keep the filter clean.
- Have at least one smoke/carbon monoxide detector on each floor.
- Never use a stove or oven to heat your home.
- Check vents regularly for blockage.
- Don't store flammable liquids near the furnace or gas water heater.
Imposter Awareness: Be Sure Before You Open the Door
Before letting anyone claiming to be a utility worker into your home or business always ask for identification. If you’re even the slightest bit unsure about a person’s claim to be from PGW call 911.
All PGW employees have:
- ID badges
- Official white PGW vehicles with clearly visible PGW logos and municipal license plates
- Branded clothing
Folleto de impostores – Español
Call 8-1-1 Before You Dig
Working on a project that requires digging? Call 8-1-1 first, or (800) 242-1776 from a number outside Pennsylvania.
This free service ensures underground utility lines are marked, preventing damage to service lines and keeping you and your property safe. Remember, it’s the law.
Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a dangerous gas produced when heating systems are not working correctly and cause severe sickness and even death. You can't smell, taste or see CO. To protect yourself and your loved ones:
- Have your appliances, chimney and flue serviced regularly by a qualified technician.
- Install a battery-operated CO detector in your home.
- Replace batteries in your CO detector twice a year.
- Never use an oven to heat your home.
- Never use a charcoal grill indoors.
If you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning call 911 or emergency medical help immediately.
For more information visit http://www.cdc.gov/co/
Natural Gas Alarm Systems
At Philadelphia Gas Works we’re committed to safety. That commitment includes planning and training for any situation that may arise.
It also includes regularly testing the loud alarms at our facilities in Port Richmond and Passyunk. Different alarms mean different things, and each has its own testing schedule. Here’s what each one sounds like, what it means, and when it’s tested.
- General Alarm – This air siren is for people inside the Plant, and is tested Thursdays at noon.
[Passyunk Alarm] [Port Richmond Alarm] - Plant Evacuation Alarm – This air siren is for people inside the Plant, and is tested Thursdays at noon.
[Passyunk Alarm] [Port Richmond Alarm] - Civil Evacuation Alarm – This air siren is for the surrounding community and is tested at noon the first Friday of every month.
[Passyunk Alarm] [Port Richmond Alarm]
You can also read and download PGW’s updated emergency pamphlets:
Passyunk Plant Emergency Pamphlet
Richmond Plant Emergency Pamphlet
Remember: If you smell gas, or have an unsafe condition, call PGW at 215-235-1212 any time, day or night.
Flood Safety
Heavy rains can cause flooding any time of the year. If your home or basement floods:
Don't step in floodwater. Before you go into a flooded basement, ask PGW or your local fire department to turn off your natural gas and electricity.
If you smell natural gas, leave immediately. Don't operate gas or electric appliances. Call PGW’s 24-hour gas emergency hotline at (215) 235-1212.
