Texas Explosion Attorneys
The Dangers of Natural Gas Explosions
Although natural gas a popular heat energy source for many American families, natural gas leaks can lead to dangerous health problems and even death. The potential for an explosion increases greatly during a natural gas leak, so homeowners should be aware of places that might experience leaks.
The following appliances have the potential to leak and should be carefully monitored:
- Water heaters
- Ovens
- Dryers
- Central Heating Systems
- Central Cooling Systems
- Space Heaters
- Fireplace Logs
- Outdoor Grills
Should an explosion occur in your home, there are several different parties that may be held responsible for your injuries. Occasionally, the company supplying the gas can be held responsible if there is evidence that the excess gas was not the result of an appliance malfunction. If it is determined that an appliance was defective and malfunctioned, the party who installed or repaired the appliance may be held responsible. Other possible responsible parties include the seller of the appliance, the manufacturer of the appliance, and the distributor of the appliance.
Natural gas is odorless, but a distinct smell is added to the gas so that it is easier to detect a leak before an explosion occurs. If you smell gas in or around your home you should first alert other of the danger and leave the house. Do not, under any circumstances, turn on a light or switch on anything electrical. Do not use your home phone or cell phone anywhere remotely near the location of the leak. These actions could cause a spark and cause a dangerous explosion. Call your gas company from the safety of a neighbor’s house or from the safety of another distant location.
