Safety boundary: Leave immediately. Do not use switches, phones, flames or vehicles near the suspected leak. Call 911 and the gas or propane supplier from a safe location.
Do not investigate
A fuel odour is not a troubleshooting exercise. Do not search for the source, relight pilots or turn equipment on and off.
Move everyone out
Help occupants and pets leave by the nearest safe exit. Avoid actions that could create a spark.
Call from outside
Use a phone well away from the building. Follow emergency-service and utility instructions.
Wait for clearance
Do not return because the smell seems to fade. Re-entry and restoration of service require clearance and, where needed, qualified repair.
Useful questions to record
- Can everyone leave safely now?
- Which emergency service or utility should be called from outside?
- What information can be recorded without re-entering?
Related guides
Carbon Monoxide and Home HeatingHow carbon monoxide can enter a home and what alarms and appliance maintenance can—and cannot—do.Venting and Combustion AirWhy appliance vents, chimneys, exhaust fans and house pressure interact.HVAC, Filtration and Indoor Air QualityWhat central HVAC can contribute—and what requires source control or ventilation.Smoke and Carbon-Monoxide Alarm ChecklistA practical record for alarm locations, testing and replacement dates.