What should be done if you suspect a gas leak?

When a gas leak is suspected, the most critical action is to prioritize safety and minimize risks. Leaving the area and contacting the gas service provider is the correct approach. This ensures that you are moving away from potential danger, as gas leaks can lead to explosions, fire, and health risks from inhalation. By evacuating the area, you reduce the risk of exposure, while contacting professionals ensures that trained personnel handle the situation appropriately.

Checking appliances immediately can lead to unnecessary risks as interacting with a potentially faulty appliance in a gas leak scenario could ignite the gas or cause further issues. Lighting a match to check for gas presence is dangerously reckless, as it could trigger an explosion. Delaying action until morning is also unsafe, as a suspected leak should be treated as an emergency regardless of the time of day. Therefore, prioritizing immediate evacuation and professional assistance is the most responsible and safe choice in this scenario.