What should be the first response if a gas leak is suspected in a building?

When a gas leak is suspected in a building, the first response should be to evacuate the building immediately. This action is crucial for ensuring the safety of all occupants, as natural gas is highly flammable and potentially explosive. Evacuating prevents individuals from being exposed to harmful fumes, which could lead to serious health issues or even fatalities.

Prioritizing evacuation allows for a swift removal of all persons from the immediate danger zone, reducing the risk of ignition from any potential spark and ensuring that responders can address the situation without further risk to occupants. In emergencies like gas leaks, immediate action is essential, and removing individuals from the area is the most effective first step.

Calling the fire department, attempting to locate the source of the leak, or ventilating the area are important actions to take after evacuation has been completed. However, these actions cannot precede the evacuation process because the safety of individuals inside the building must come first.