Knowing the signs of a natural gas leak can help you respond quickly and safely. Natural gas is delivered to more than 400,000 CPS Energy customers by over 6,200 miles of underground pipelines. Even if you don’t use natural gas, pipelines may be located near you.  

Natural gas is a colorless, odorless gas , and utilities add an odorant known as mercaptan, giving it a distinctive smell similar to rotten eggs. Leaking natural gas can be hazardous. Below are additional warning signs you can use if you suspect a natural gas leak.  

Know the signs:  
Smell it: Strong odor like rotten eggs (mercaptan) 
Hear it: Hissing or roaring noise  
See it: Dead plants, dirt blowing, or bubbling water 

Follow these safety guidelines if you smell, hear, or see any signs of a gas leak. 

What to do:  
✔️ Exit the building immediately  
✔️ Leave the door open on the way out  
✔️ Leave the area immediately if you’re outside  
✔️ Go to another location, call 911, and CPS Energy at 210-353-HELP (4357)  
✔️ Stay away from the area until it’s safe to return 

What NOT to do:  
❌ Don’t ignore the warning signs 
❌ Don’t operate anything electrical 
❌ Don’t turn lights on or off 
❌ Don’t use a phone in the area 
❌ Don’t turn a flashlight on or off 
❌ Don’t light a flame or strike a match 
❌ Don’t open the garage door or use appliances   

Planning an outdoor project? Before you begin any digging, Texas law requires you to Call 811 at least 48 hours before beginning a project. CPS Energy and other service providers will mark the location of underground gas lines and other utilities at no cost to you. By calling 811 you can prevent serious injuries, utility damage and project delays.  It’s free and it’s the law. Visit texas811.org for more information.

Natural Gas Safety Tip Sheet: Tips (English and Spanish)