New York City Gas Code Practice Test

Gas leaks create a real fire and explosion risk, so the safest move is to get people out to fresh air and stop any potential ignition sources. Evacuate everyone from the area, remove them to a safe distance, and avoid using anything that could spark—no electrical switches, no phones indoors, and no open flames. Then, from a safe location, call the gas utility or emergency services so professionals can respond, locate the leak, and ventilate the area if needed. If you can reach the main gas shutoff safely, turning the gas off at the valve can stop the fuel supply and help reduce the danger, but only do this if you can do so without entering danger or putting yourself at risk. Do not attempt to shut off gas if it requires you to go back into the hazardous area. Why not the other actions? Ignoring a leak leaves fuel flowing and the hazard active. An exhaust fan can move gas around and doesn’t remove the source of the danger, and lighting a match or using any ignition source is highly dangerous and could trigger an explosion.