what do gas leaks smell like

Natural gas is odorless, so a leak would be impossible to detect. However, to help detect the smell of gas, a harmless chemical called mercaptan is added to give leaked gas a distinctive odor. Most people describe the scent like rotten eggs or a hydrogen sulfide odor. Therefore, if you smell something like rotten eggs, sewage, or sulfur, it could be a sign of a gas leak. If you think you’re experiencing a gas leak, it is important to exit the area immediately and call your gas company or 911 for help.