In a natural gas emergency, what are the first two actions to take?

In a natural gas emergency, the first critical actions are to isolate the area and deny entry. This step is essential for ensuring the safety of personnel and the public. Isolating the area prevents anyone from entering a potentially hazardous zone where natural gas may be present, significantly reducing the risk of ignition and injury. Denying entry also includes keeping bystanders at a safe distance, which safeguards both emergency responders and civilians who might inadvertently walk into danger.

Once the area is secured, additional measures like assessing the situation, calling for backup, and implementing strategies to manage the emergency can follow. This approach prioritizes the immediate safety of individuals over other considerations, creating a controlled environment for more detailed investigation or action to manage the gas leak.