Nationwide, natural gas is delivered to about 175 million American consumers through a 1.3 million mile network of underground pipe. It is clean burning and safe because of its narrow combustion range, igniting only in a 5 to 15 percent gas-in-air mixture. Its non-toxic nature, both before and after burning, allows it to be used safety in various applications and makes it environmentally superior to other fossil fuels.

Natural gas is the primary energy used for home heating by some 55 percent of American homes. It is being used increasingly in electric power generation and cooling, and as a transportation fuel.

Natural gas is a colorless, odorless hydrocarbon nearly 100 percent combustible. It is primarily composed of methane; however, small amounts of ethane, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide are also part of its chemical make up. For safety purposes, a chemical odorant is added, making the presence of gas detectable.

If you smell gas in your home:

• Put out all open flames. Don't light matches or lighters, and don't attempt to light your appliance.
• Don't touch electric switches, thermostats or appliance controls. They may cause sparks.
• Open windows and outside doors for ventilation.
• If the odor is strong, don't use your telephone.
• Leave the premises and call PSE&G at 1-800-436-7734 from a neighbor's home and remain outside until PSE&G arrives. PSE&G provides 24-hour emergency service every day of the year.
• PSE&G does not charge to respond to gas leaks.