Whether you notice it by way of a hissing sound or an unmistakable smell, a gas leak is a terrifying experience, especially if you don’t know how it started or how long it might have been going on.
What’s even worse, though, is that the long-term impacts can be just as (if not more) devastating than the incident itself. From health hazards to property damage, you need to know what these risks are and what to do about them in order to protect yourself and your family in the aftermath.
How Gas Leaks Can Impact Your Health
Gas has invaluable uses in the home, but the very same substances and materials that give it its useful properties are also what makes it so dangerous. Gas leaks release many harmful molecules into the air you breathe, including carbon monoxide, methane, and benzene, all of which can cause both short- and long-term health problems.
Some of the most common health risks associated with gas leaks are:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Respiratory problems
- Brain injuries (which can lead to neurological problems, cognitive impairments, and memory loss)
- Cancer
If you’ve been exposed to a gas leak, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible, even if you feel okay and aren’t experiencing any symptoms. Bear in mind that some health problems associated with gas leaks may not manifest until years later, so keep following up if any strange symptoms suddenly arise.
What About Your Home?
Gas leaks can cause significant property damage, right up to explosions and fires in the most severe cases. Even if you don’t end up dealing with the worst possible outcome, even a small gas leak can be powerful enough to damage your home’s structure and contaminate your belongings.
Therefore, once your leak is contained, make sure to have your home inspected for damage by a professional and replace any contaminated items. Furniture and clothing are often the most vulnerable.
Smell Gas? Here’s What to Do
If you suspect a gas leak, take action immediately. First and foremost, get outside, then call your gas company or emergency services. Don’t try to locate and fix the leak yourself; let the experts handle it and keep yourself safe.
Once the leak is repaired, take steps to avoid future leaks. Have all of your gas-based appliances inspected regularly, and make sure that they’re all fully shut off after you finish using them. Sometimes, the start of a leak is as simple as the dial of a burner on your stove not being fully switched off.
It’s also essential to install carbon monoxide and natural gas detectors throughout your home if you don’t have them already. With them, you’ll be alerted to any leak as soon as it begins, and you won’t have to rely on just your senses.
Addressing the Long-Term Impacts of a Gas Leak
A gas leak is, understandably, one of a homeowner’s worst fears, and it can be especially difficult to cope if something as simple as a faulty appliance or a dial that was barely on causes devastating consequences for you or someone you love.
But there is life after a gas leak. Injuries and health complications can be treated and managed, and some might even resolve or disappear on their own. Even in the event that you end up with a chronic condition, the most important thing you can do is not give up hope. There are resources available to ensure you can keep moving forward. Get medical help, keep taking care of yourself, and consider contacting an attorney if you think you might be entitled to compensation.
Contact The Dallas Personal Injury Law Firm of Benton Accident & Injury Lawyers Today
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Dallas, TX, contact us for more information, please contact the experienced Dallas personal injury lawyers at Benton Accident & Injury Lawyers today. We offer free consultations. We proudly serve in Dallas County and its surrounding areas: Benton Accident & Injury Lawyers 1825 Market Center Blvd # 350, Dallas, TX 75207 Phone: (214) 777-7777 Hours Open: 24/7 Our firm is located near you. We have an office in Dallas. Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 32.7950252,-96.8241861