Smell gas at home? What to do, and how to call 1199

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Last checked 30 Sep 2026. Helpline numbers, fees, timings and procedures in this guide were checked against the official sources listed at the end on that date. They can change, so always confirm with the official office before you apply, pay or travel.

If you smell gas

1. Remove every source of ignition. Put out flames and cigarettes. Don't switch lights or appliances on or off, and don't use a lighter or matches.
2. Turn off the gas supply at the meter or main valve if it is safe to reach.
3. Open doors and windows to let the gas escape.
4. Get everyone out and call your gas company on 1199 (SNGPL or SSGC) from outside, well away from the smell.
5. If there is a fire or someone feels unwell, call 1122.

Preventing leaks

• Have gas pipes, heaters and geysers installed and checked by qualified people.
• Replace old rubber hoses and loose fittings.
• Never leave heaters on in closed rooms while sleeping.
• A soapy-water test on joints shows leaks as bubbles. Never test with a flame.

Find geyser and gas-appliance specialists in our home services category.

Why gas leaks are dangerous

Leaking gas can build up in a closed space and catch fire or explode from a single spark, even from a light switch or a phone charger being plugged in. Acting calmly and quickly, in the order above, is the best way to keep everyone safe.

Carbon monoxide: the hidden danger

Gas heaters, geysers and stoves that burn without enough fresh air can produce carbon monoxide. It has no smell or colour, so you won't notice it. Every winter, people in Pakistan are harmed by heaters left running in closed rooms.

• Warning signs include headache, dizziness, sleepiness, nausea and confusion, often affecting several people in the same room.
• If you suspect it, turn the appliance off if safe, open windows, get everyone into fresh air and call 1122.
• Never sleep with a gas heater on in a closed room, and never use a stove or oven to heat a room.
• Make sure geysers have a working flue that takes fumes outside.

Heaters, geysers and winter safety

• Have heaters and geysers installed by qualified people, with proper fittings rather than loose hoses.
• Check that the flame burns blue. A yellow or orange flame can mean poor burning, so have the appliance checked.
• Turn off heaters before sleeping or leaving the house.
• Keep curtains, clothes and furniture well away from heaters.
• Gas companies warn against gas compressors on domestic connections. They are unsafe and can affect your neighbours' supply.

Who handles what

• Your gas company (SNGPL or SSGC, both on 1199) handles leaks, the supply line and your meter. Always call them for any leak.
• A qualified gas fitter or plumber handles new pipework, moving appliances and fitting heaters or geysers inside your home, once the company has made the supply safe.

After a leak

Don't use the gas again until the leak has been found and fixed. Ask the person who fixes it what caused it, and replace any damaged hoses or fittings. Keep the complaint number from your call to 1199 in case you need to follow up.

Everyday checks at home

• Once in a while, check hoses on stoves and heaters for cracks, hardness or loose clips, and replace them if in doubt.
• Turn off the cooker valves when you finish cooking, and the main valve if you are away for several days.
• Teach children never to play with knobs or valves, and what to do if they smell gas.
• Keep the number 1199 and 1122 saved on every phone in the house.

A few minutes of checking each season can prevent the most serious accidents.

If you use LPG cylinders

Many homes and shops use LPG cylinders rather than piped gas. Buy cylinders from authorised dealers, keep them upright in a ventilated place away from heat, and check the regulator and hose for damage. If a cylinder leaks, close its valve if safe, open doors and windows, keep all flames and switches off, move everyone outside and call 1122.

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