• While generally safe, failures in gas water heaters can be catastrophic. Natural gas and carbon monoxide leaks are life-threatening inhalation hazards. Overheating the water can cause scalding and even explosion hazards. Earthquakes can cause gas from you water heater to start a fire or explode. Homeowners can take routine precautions to prevent the dangers and make the gas water heater a safe home appliance.
  
  

Gas Leaks and Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

• Natural gas is treated to give it a sulfur smell that is often described as similar to rotten eggs. Anytime you smell this odor in a home served by natural gas there is cause for concern. Leave the home immediately and call the gas utility company from a safe place. Refrain from using any item that may cause a spark while you are in the home, including light switches, phones or any other electrical equipment.
  
  Another gas safety concern is carbon monoxide (CO). The combustion of natural gas results in carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless poison. Symptoms of CO poisoning include headaches and nausea and may be misinterpreted as the flu. Any time carbon monoxide is suspected, residents should leave the home and request the home be checked by fire department officials.
  
  Gas leaks are rare but can be prevented. Certified plumbing and heating technicians should check your water heater and associated pipes and vents annually. Both natural gas leaks and carbon monoxide poisoning can be fatal.
  
  

Hot Water Risks

• Set the thermostat on the water heater no higher than 120 degrees Fahrenheit. This reduces the chance of accidental scalding. It also reduces the energy requirements of the water heater and may save the homeowner some money in the long run.
  
  

High Pressure Dangers

• Water heated to the boiling point turns to steam and increases the pressure within the water heater. If the pressure reaches a high enough level the water heater can violently explode causing damage to the home and danger to the occupants.
  
  There are two safety features to prevent this type of danger and both would have to fail at the same time to cause an explosion. Make sure the thermostat is operating properly. Thermostats in water heaters do not allow intentional settings high enough to generate steam and pressure. Water temperatures of 120 degrees will not cause a pressure increase.
  
  There is also a safety relief valve on every water heater. This valve will automatically vent the water in the heater when it approaches a level that is dangerous. This safety relief valve should be checked every year according to the instructions with the gas water heater.
  
  

Earthquake Dangers

• The California Governor's Office of Emergency Services lists several suggestions for water heater safety in earthquake prone areas as a way to reduce the likelihood of fires or explosions. Use straps to attach the water heater to the walls. Use three quarter inch, 24-gauge plumbers tape and 3-inch lag screws. Place one strap 9 inches below the top of the water heater and the other 4 inches above the controls. Fasten the tape to wall studs with the 3-inch lag screws. If you do not have flexible pipes connecting the water heater to the gas line, a licensed plumber can install one.