With the temperatures dropping, people may be turning on heaters and using natural gas and appliances that haven’t been used all summer long.  With that, Ameren Illinois is asking that customers be aware of natural gas leaks; what they smell like, and what to do if there is one. 

Jake Dukett, Supervisor of gas public awareness for Ameren, says that natural gas has a rotten egg odor.  It gets added in so you know if there is an issue. If there is an issue evacuate the premises immediately without flipping any light switches, using electronics, closing the door, or taking any other action that may cause a spark.

Another way Dukett says that you can check is by the color of the flames.

Dukett says if there is a leak, they immediately respond to deal with the situation.

He offers some tips on how to keep you and your family safe.

Always call 8-1-1 (J.U.L.I.E) before conducting any projects that require digging. This will help prevent underground facility damage and potentially dangerous situations.  If you smell a leak call 800.755.5000