Captain Mercaptan^SM is BGE’s natural gas safety hero and he wants every kid to become natural gas safety hero too, by teaching simple tips to their friends and family to help them stay safe around natural gas. Captain Mercaptan takes his name from “mercaptan” the safety additive BGE and gas utilities put in natural gas to give it a rotten egg odor and make it easier to detect.

 

• Visit SafetyCentral.BGE.com for more information about his latest adventures and the Natural Gas Safety Hero Challenge.

Every kid can save the day — detect a natural gas leak, take action to remain safe and recognize important gas equipment and line markers — and become a natural gas safety hero just like Captain Mercaptan, Piper and Sunny! Just remember to follow these simple tips below.

For Signs of Natural Gas:

Mercaptan is a safety scent BGE puts in natural gas to give it a rotten egg smell.

 

   
Listen for hissing, blowing or roaring sound of gas escaping.

 

Look for dirt being blown into the air, dead plants or grass in an otherwise green areas, fire coming from the ground or water bubbling and being blown into the air.

If You Detect Natural Gas, Leave Immediately:

 

Don't try to find the source of the leak.

Don't use matches or turn anything on, even a cellphone.

 

Find a safe place outside and call BGE, or tell an adult to call:

If you smell natural gas, leave the area immediately and call BGE at 1-877-778-7798 or 1-800-685-0123.

           For downed power lines, stay away from the area and call BGE at 1-877-778-2222 or 1-800-685-0123.

           Representatives are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.