Are you familiar with the safety precautions for the natural gas in your new home? If not, GasGeorgia has some safety tips to give you a helping hand in understanding natural gas and how to keep your family safe in case of an emergency.

• Smell Gas — The smell of natural gas smells like rotten eggs. If the smell inside your home is strong, have everyone exit the house immediately. Open door and windows on the way out only if you can. Do not use anything like a home phone, light switches, flashlight, computer or any other item that might cause a spark. If the odor is faint then check your stove burners and pilot light.

• Gas Appliances — Keep anything flammable away from gas appliances at all times.

• Blue Color — Burning natural gas should have a blue color. Another color could signify improper venting.

• Landscaping — Make sure to call your local gas company before you begin digging anywhere on your property to ensure you won’t hit a natural gas line.

• Gas Appliances — All gas appliances should have proper air circulation at all times.

• Keeping Warm in the Winter — Do not use natural gas appliances likes stoves to keep warm during a cold snap.

The Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC) is responsible for ensuring that consumer rights are protected from fraudulent business practices. Your natural gas bill of rights is clearly stated and explained by the PSC, so it is essential that you know what aspects of your natural gas service are protected.

The Natural Gas Consumers' Bill of Rights guarantees the right to:

• Reliable and high-quality customer service provided with your natural gas service


• Receive updated and accurate information regarding your service terms and rates in a clear, concise format that allows you to easily compare companies and services.


• Access to the latest benefits and services that help you maximize your savings and comfort.


• Set, fair standards for any payment or credit disputes


• Protection from fraudulent, anti-competitive and deceptive information and practices, preventing you from making an educated decision when it comes to switching or comparing natural gas companies


• Accurate and timely bills with options to receive electronically


• Protection of privacy


• Prices protected from unfair or illegal shifting


• Fair dispute settlement with either provider or third party