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Holiday mail is usually full of cheerful cards and packages. This year, Citizens Energy Group is adding something a little unexpected: a scratch & sniff card that smells like natural gas.
Between early December and mid-January, every Citizens customer will receive this educational card, even if they only have water or wastewater service. The purpose is simple: to help Central Indiana residents recognize the odor of natural gas and know what to do if they ever smell it.
Natural gas is originally odorless. We add a substance called mercaptan, which creates the strong rotten egg or sulfur smell that alerts people to a possible leak. Being familiar with this smell is a quick, effective safety tool.
What’s on the Card
The card explains:
- What natural gas smells like
- How to recognize signs of a leak
- What steps to take if you detect a leak
- How to avoid hitting natural gas lines during home projects
Some customers will receive the card in their regular bill; others will receive it as a separate mailing. All cards should arrive by mid-January.
How to Recognize a Leak
A natural gas leak may show up through:
- Rotten egg or sulfur odor
- Bubbling water, blowing dirt, or dead grass near a natural gas line
- Hissing or whistling near equipment or pipes
If something seems unusual, respond right away.
What to Do If You Smell Natural Gas
- Leave immediately. Don’t try to find the source.
- Don’t do anything that could cause a spark: no light switches, phones, lighters, or vehicles.
- Once you’re safely away, call Citizens at 317-924-3311. Crews respond 24/7 at no charge.
Simple Natural Gas Safety Tips
- Install carbon monoxide alarms on every level of your home.
- Keep furnace and appliance areas clear of clutter.
- Have your furnace inspected once a year.
- Call 811 before any digging project, big or small.
- Use space heaters safely and keep them away from flammable materials.
This might be the smelliest piece of mail you receive this season, but it could also be one of the most important. Taking a moment to become familiar with the odor of natural gas helps protect your home, your family, and your community.
About Citizens Energy Group
Citizens Energy Group provides safe and reliable utility services to about 900,000 people in the Indianapolis area. Citizens operates its utilities for the benefit of customers and the community.
Media Contact Information
Citizens Energy Group
Phone: 317-519-1515
Email: media@citizensenergygroup.com