In Southern California, SoCalGas checks gas delivery lines for methane leaks and publishes a map of sites with elevated methane levels. The company states that methane is hazardous only in enclosed areas with a nearby ignition source. Sites not posing a threat are labeled “non-hazardous” and are monitored or scheduled for repair.

SoCalGas technicians make the “non-hazardous” determination using a 4-point inspection:
1) proximity to people and property
2) concentration of gas at inspection
3) potential for gas to accumulate
4) presence of an ignition source

To find out if your neighborhood has a leak, visit the Leak Verification Map website at: Click here https://socalgas.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=93db425fa47d4de9857dd34fd67a93fe 

Once there, enter your zip code to view the sites they have discovered so far.

Note: The map gives approximate locations, which are sometimes slightly offset. There are several in Fullerton.

Methane is a potent greenhouse gas, more than 28 times more effective than carbon dioxide at trapping heat. It has the potential to cause rare explosions that can endanger people and property. Continuous leaks can also damage plants and trees.

According to the U.S. Methane Emissions Reduction Action Plan, methane poses both acute and chronic hazards to human health as it is flammable and explosive within certain ranges. This presents a safety risk for individuals in areas with high methane concentrations, such as around oil and gas facilities, certain agricultural settings, and coal mines.

Methane gas intoxication can lead to asphyxia and lung injury, and the explosive hazards posed by methane can be fatal.
Over the last two centuries, its levels have doubled due to human activities. Reducing methane emissions would swiftly and significantly impact atmospheric warming potential.

Finally, if you smell a gas odor, hear a hissing sound, or suspect a leak, do not smoke, light a match, candle, or flame, turn electrical appliances or lights on or off, or use any device that could create a spark. Immediately evacuate the area and call SoCalGas at 1-800-427-2200 or 911.

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