Leave first when natural gas may be leaking

DECISION GUIDE 40

Make the next action fit the evidence

Use the condition described here to narrow the first safe action, the responsible contact, and the written authorization.

Do not pay for certainty that the observable pattern does not support.

OBSERVE

Preserve the useful clues

From a safe location, use SoCalGas’s current emergency instructions. Give responders the location and observed sign without returning to confirm it.

Write the time, fixture, room, and use that preceded the change.
Photograph the wider context before taking a detail view.
Keep model labels, bills, prior repair records, and test results together.

CONTAIN

Choose the safe boundary

Do not use switches, electronics, flames, vehicles, or tools near the suspected leak. Do not use this site’s referral number before the gas utility or emergency services.

Containment should reduce harm without erasing evidence or transferring risk to gas, electricity, wastewater, finishes, or utility equipment.

AUTHORIZE

Put the first scope in writing

After the utility makes the condition safe, define the legal contractor, permit, pressure test, appliance reconnection, inspection, and restoration before repair.

Ask what is included, excluded, and still unknown.
Set the price or authorization boundary before work expands.
Define the test or record that will show completion.

SANTA ROSA SOURCE

Check the current public guidance

SoCalGas natural-gas leak guidance

Suspected gas leaks require evacuation and a call from a safe location.

Before the visit Preserve the pattern and clear only safe access.
At diagnosis Ask what observation or measurement supports the conclusion.
Before repair Verify the legal provider and compare the complete written scope.
At closeout Review tests, remaining limits, permits, cleanup, and documents.