What to Do If You Smell Gas

Fire Safety Dispatch

A woman turns off the stove in her kitchen

Signatures of a Gas Leak

  • A distinctive odor similar to sulfur or rotten eggs
  • A white cloud, mist, or fog, or bubbles pushing out of standing water
  • A roaring, hissing, or whistling sound

What to Do

Immediately call Public Safety at 212-305-7979.

For faint odors, remain calm:

  • Make sure the burners on all gas appliances are completely shut off.
  • If in a laboratory, check that all gas valves are in the closed position.

For strong odors, evacuate the building or area:

  • Immediately call 911 and Public Safety from a safe, unaffected area.
  • Identify persons with mobility-related disabilities and provide assistance or notify FDNY on their arrival.
  • Ventilate the area if possible by opening windows.
  • Leave ventilation systems such as building ventilation and fume hoods operating.

What NOT to Do

  • Do not use the phone in the area of the leak.
  • Do not turn the light switches on or off.
  • Do not activate the fire alarm system.
  • Do not turn electrical equipment on or off.
  • Do not use elevators in the area.
  • Do not return to the evacuated area until advised to do so by FDNY, Public Safety, or Fire Safety staff.

In emergencies, always call Public Safety at 212-305-7979 and 911.