The Facts
Natural gas is one of the safest energy sources available to homeowners and businesses alike. By itself, natural gas will not ignite. For ignition to occur, a mixture of gas between four and 14 percent must combine with air. Also, gas must have an ignition source with a temperature of 1,100 degrees Fahrenheit or more before it will ignite.
Because gas is lighter than air, it will rise and disperse. That's why you should open windows and doors if you smell gas.
Natural gas actually has no odor. However, MichCon adds a harmless chemical with a distinctive odor to gas to make it easily identifiable. Sure, it smells bad! But in case of a leak, you'll know to call MichCon for service.
While natural gas is not toxic (like any other fossil fuel), it can produce carbon monoxide (CO) if it does not burn completely. That's why all flues and chimneys should be clear of debris and all natural gas appliances should be in good operating condition. MichCon recommends an annual appliance inspection and at least one CO detector in the home.
Natural gas service lines are buried on private property which supply gas to homes and businesses. The use of sharp tools can damage these lines, causing injury or loss of service. Before doing any digging, remember to Raise the Flags and call MISS DIG at 1.800.482.7171.
At MichCon, your safety is our priority. We operate and maintain 2,408 miles of high-pressure natural gas transmission lines in Michigan. Read our brochure, Sharing Responsibility for Natural Gas Pipeline Safety*, for tips on identifying a natural gas pipeline and what to do if a pipeline is damaged, a leak occurs or if you must dig in the vicinity of a gas line.
Safety Rules
Here are a few rules to follow to help keep you and your family safe:
- Follow manufacturer's instructions in the care and operation of gas-fired appliances.
- Have MichCon technicians or qualified contractors handle natural gas-related repair and installation jobs.
- Use appliances for their intended purpose. In other words, don't use your gas oven to heat your kitchen, for example.
- Keep all combustible materials away from the flame of your gas appliances.
- Keep burners and surrounding surfaces clean.
- Make sure the flues of automatically controlled appliances are corrosion-free, securely attached, and correctly vented.
- Don't use gas fuel lines as clotheslines.
- Don't block furnace room air vents. Gas appliances require air to burn fuel completely and operate efficiently. A yellowish flame can signal improper operation.
- Teach children never to turn on or light gas appliances.
- If the pilot flame on a gas appliance goes out, shut off the gas supply at the appliance's valve and allow time for accumulated gas to escape. Follow the relight procedure posted on the appliance. If you have any doubts about the relighting procedure, call us at 1.800.477.4747.
- Never operate grills, lawn mowers, or vehicles in a closed garage.
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