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What Should I Do If I Smell Gas After a House Fire?

Last updated October 25, 2026

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The short answer

Leave the Building Right Away

If you smell gas after a house fire, your first step is to get everyone out of the home. Do not stop to gather belongings, open windows, or turn off lights. Any small spark from a light switch, doorbell, or phone can ignite gas in the air.

Once you are outside, move to a safe spot that is upwind and at least a short distance from the house. Keep pets and children with you. Do not re-enter for any reason, even if the smell seems faint or you are unsure it is gas.

Call the Gas Utility and Fire Department

From outside, call your gas utility's emergency number and the fire department. Tell them you have had a house fire and now smell gas. They will send someone to check the lines and shut off the gas supply if needed.

Do not use a cell phone near the house, and do not start a car or use any device that could spark. Stay at a safe distance until the gas utility and fire department have checked the area. They have the tools to detect gas leaks and make the area safe.

  • Do not flip any light switches
  • Do not use a landline or cell phone indoors
  • Do not light matches or candles
  • Do not turn on or off any appliances
  • Do not open the garage door with a remote
  • Do not re-enter until told it is safe

Why Gas Smells After a Fire

A house fire can melt or crack gas pipes, damage the connection to your stove or water heater, or cause the gas valve to fail. Heat and smoke can also affect the rubber seals inside appliances, leading to a slow leak that you notice later.

Even if the fire was small or contained, the heat can weaken metal fittings. The gas company adds a strong odor to natural gas so you can detect leaks. That smell is a warning that the fuel is escaping and could cause another fire or explosion.

Do Not Try to Fix It Yourself

Homeowners should never attempt to repair gas lines or appliances after a fire. Only the gas utility or a qualified plumber should handle gas connections. You can also contact a local water damage pro to assess other fire-related damage, such as soot or water from firefighting efforts.

If the fire department or utility shuts off your gas, they will tell you what to do next. Do not turn the gas back on yourself. Wait for a professional to inspect the entire system and confirm it is safe.

Watch for Water Damage Too

Firefighting often leaves water in walls, floors, and basements. That water can cause mold and structural damage if not dried quickly. After the gas issue is handled, you may need help with drying and cleanup.

If you live in Detroit, keep your gas shutoff valve location written down for future reference. Local water damage pros can also perform structural drying and dehumidification to help your home recover after a fire. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

  • Check for standing water in the basement
  • Remove wet carpet and padding
  • Run fans and dehumidifiers once it is safe
  • Dry out wall cavities to prevent mold

Water damage does not wait

Call (313) 766-2970 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does gas smell last after a fire?

The smell can last for hours or days, depending on the source. If the leak is sealed, the odor may linger in fabrics and porous materials. If you still smell gas after the utility has checked, ask them to return. Do not try to mask the smell with air fresheners.

Can I turn off my own gas after a fire?

You can turn off the main gas valve if you know where it is and can do so safely from outside, but only if you are not in danger. Do not use tools that could spark. However, it is safer to let the gas utility handle it, because they can check for other leaks.

What should I do if the smell goes away?

Even if the smell fades, you should still have the gas system inspected. A leak can be intermittent or masked by other odors. Call the gas utility to check the lines and appliances. Do not assume it is safe just because you cannot smell it anymore.

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