Southwest Gas Cracks Down on Safety Reminds the Public How to Recognize a Natural Gas Leak
Category: Nevada
June 3, 2025
LAS VEGAS, NV — In recognition of National Egg Day on June 3rd, Southwest Gas is egging on the community to stay alert—because a rotten egg smell should never be ignored, especially when it comes to natural gas safety.
Mercaptan, a distinct sulfur-like odorant added to natural gas, plays a crucial role in early leak detection—helping protect the communities we serve.
LAS VEGAS, NV — In recognition of National Egg Day on June 3rd, Southwest Gas is egging on the community to stay alert—because a rotten egg smell should never be ignored, especially when it comes to natural gas safety.
Mercaptan, a distinct sulfur-like odorant added to natural gas, plays a crucial role in early leak detection—helping protect the communities we serve.
While natural gas is naturally colorless and odorless, mercaptan is added as a safety measure to help people quickly identify a potential leak. It smells similar to rotten eggs or sulfur and serves as one of the most recognizable warning signs.
Southwest Gas reminds the public that if you suspect a natural gas leak—whether or not you are a Southwest Gas customer—you should:
- Immediately leave the area
- Call 911 and Southwest Gas at 877-860-6020 from a safe distance
- Avoid using any electronics, matches, lighters, or anything that could cause a spark
Common signs of a natural gas leak include:
- A strong sulfur-like odor, similar to rotten eggs (caused by mercaptan)
- A hissing or roaring sound near the ground or gas appliance
- Blowing dirt, bubbling water, or dead or discolored vegetation near a pipeline or meter
Southwest Gas also encourages residents, contractors, and landscapers to practice safe digging habits to avoid damaging underground gas lines. Before any digging project, no matter how small, call 811 or visit www.call811.com to request utility line markings.
For more safety tips and educational resources on natural gas, visit www.swgas.com/safety.
About Southwest Gas
Southwest Gas Corporation is a dynamic energy company committed to exceeding the expectations of our over two million customers throughout Arizona, California, and Nevada by providing safe and reliable service while innovating sustainable energy solutions to fuel our communities’ growth. For more information about how Southwest Gas is supporting a sustainable energy future, please visit swgas.com.
Media Contact:
Amy Washburn
