Gas leaks

Turn off your gas

If you think you have a gas leak, you need to turn off your gas supply at the meter.

1. Find your emergency control valve. In newer houses, the emergency control valve is normally outside with the gas meter - in a meter box. If it's not there, try looking under the stairs, beneath the kitchen sink or in the garage.

2. Turn the handle so the lever is at 90 degrees to the upright gas pipe.

Next steps

1. Open all your doors and windows to let gas out and some fresh air in.

2. Don't switch anything electrical on or off.

3. Put out all naked flames. Don't smoke, strike matches or do anything which could make the gas catch fire.

4. If you have any electrical security entry phones or locks, don't use them. Open your doors manually.

Carbon monoxide poisoning

Carbon monoxide is an odourless, colourless gas - you won't see or smell it coming. But it can kill you.

It's made when things that contain carbon - like fossil fuels - burn without enough oxygen. You should get your boiler and heating serviced regularly to make sure this doesn't happen. And to stay on the safe side, use a carbon monoxide detector. It's not an alternative to regular servicing, but it will give you an early warning if something's wrong.

Find out more about carbon monoxide.