As we move into the colder months, many of us are using more natural gas for heating and cooking. While natural gas is a reliable and safe energy source when used properly, it’s important to be aware of how to keep your home safe. Here are some key safety tips to ensure you and your family stay protected. 

Natural gas is safe when used properly  

Natural gas is one of the most commonly used energy sources for heating, cooking, and powering appliances in homes across Kingston. It is both reliable and safe when used correctly. By being mindful of proper usage and conducting regular maintenance, you can confidently enjoy the many benefits of natural gas in your home. 

If you smell rotten eggs, it could be a gas leak  

Natural gas is odourless in its natural state, but to help detect leaks, a distinct sulphur smell—often described as “rotten eggs”—is added. This odour comes from a substance called mercaptan, which makes it easier to identify a gas leak before it becomes a serious safety issue.  

In addition to the smell, other signs of a potential gas leak can include a hissing sound or dead vegetation near gas lines. If you do not have a sense of smell, consider installing a natural gas alarm to help detect leaks. 

Act fast in case of a leak  

If you suspect a gas leak, don’t wait—take action quickly. Evacuate the area right away, and avoid turning on any lights, appliances, or electronics that could create a spark. Do not attempt to locate the source of the leak yourself. Remember, you don’t have to be sure that it is a gas leak to call, and don’t assume someone else has already called.  

Once you are safely away from the suspected leak, call your gas provider. If you're a Utilities Kingston natural gas customer, call us at 613-546-1181, available 24/7.   

What you can’t smell can be just as dangerous: Carbon Monoxide  

To protect your house, make sure you have a working CO alarm. Test it regularly and change the batteries each year. CO alarms don’t last forever—their sensors wear out over time—so replace the alarm or its sensor module every five to ten years, following the manufacturer’s guidance. Check the date on the back of your alarm or the user manual to stay safe. 

Starting January 1, 2026, the Ontario Fire Code will expand requirements for CO alarms. In existing homes, alarms will be required on every storey, not just near sleeping areas. In multi-unit buildings, alarms will be needed in all suites that meet certain conditions, as well as in service rooms and some corridors. Care facilities will also need alarms in suites and common areas. Learn more about how these changes affect CO alarm requirements. Learn more about how these impact requirements for carbon monoxide alarms.

Regular maintenance is key  

Proper maintenance is the key to preventing gas leaks and CO buildup.  Ensure your natural gas appliances are inspected regularly through the services of a TSSA-registered contractor technician. Annual inspections can help spot potential issues before they become serious problems, keeping your home and family safe. 

Discover more about natural gas leak detection and what to do at UtilitiesKingston.com/Gas/LeaksAndOdours.