I can smell gas

What to do, in order

1. Turn off gas appliances, including pilot lights, if it's safe.
2. Turn the gas off at the meter: turn the valve handle a quarter turn so it sits horizontal. For LPG, turn it off at the cylinder or tank. Only do this if it's safe.
3. Open doors and windows to let the gas out.
4. Keep everyone away from the area.
5. Call your gas distributor's leak line straight away, from outside and away from the smell. The number is also on your gas bill.
6. For an LPG cylinder or tank, call the supplier's emergency number printed on it.
7. Never look for a leak with a flame or lighter.

Who to call

Electricity, gas and water faults go to whoever owns the network in your street, so only one of these regional numbers is yours. It is also printed on your bill.

• Triple Zero (000) 000

  There is a fire or emergency.

• Multinet Gas (gas leaks) 132 691

  You smell gas or suspect a gas leak (natural gas).

  Covers: Inner and outer east Melbourne, the Yarra Ranges and South Gippsland

• Australian Gas Networks (gas leaks, 1800 GAS LEAK) 1800 427 532

  You smell gas or suspect a gas leak (natural gas).

  Covers: North and south-eastern Melbourne, and northern and eastern Victoria

• AusNet (gas leaks or emergencies) 13 67 07

  You smell gas or suspect a gas leak (natural gas).

  Covers: Western Melbourne, Geelong, and central and western Victoria

When you need a plumber

The gas distributor fixes leaks at the meter and in the street. A leak between the meter and your appliances (the pipes and appliances on your side) is the owner's to fix with a licensed gasfitter; the distributor's emergency crew will make it safe but does not repair appliances or internal pipes. If the home has been flooded or affected by fire or heat, have a licensed gasfitter check it before the gas goes back on. Renting? A gas leak is a legally urgent repair: call your rental provider or agent on the emergency number you were given and confirm it in writing.