If there's a major leak, such as one caused by excavators or a vehicle damaging a gas line:

Faint odor
A faint natural gas odor coming from an appliance could mean its pilot light has gone out or a burner valve has been left slightly open. It's easy to correct these problems. But if the odor is strong and hard to trace, be sure to call the fire department at 911.

Older furnaces and appliances might have manual pilot lights that can be lit again, but newer models have electronic ignitions that are powered by electrical sources.

If the pilot light is out

Before you dig
Illinois law requires all persons digging, regardless of the depth of the project, to call JULIE at 1-800-892-0123 at least 48 hours (two working days) prior to the start of excavation and to begin that excavation project within 14 calendar days from calling JULIE.  (The 48 hour notice does not include Saturdays, Sundays or holidays.)  Failure to contact JULIE prior to excavation in accordance with the law can carry penalties from $200 up to $5,000 for each separate offense.  The Illinois Commerce Commission is the enforcement body for the law, not JULIE.  For more information visit their website at http://www.illinois1call.com/

Avoid problems in winter