Natural gas doesn’t naturally smell like rotten eggs. A sulfur-containing material called mercaptan is added to it to make it smell that way. And it’s a good thing that it DOES have this characteristic smell. It makes it easier to detect gas leaks when they occur. Natural gas is otherwise colorless, odorless, and tasteless.
If you notice a sulfur smell or one that resembles rotten eggs, leave the area immediately and call 9-1-1. Your fire department will work with the gas service provider to shut off the source of the natural gas until the leak can be found and repaired.
Natural gas leaks are big deal because, if they can go unnoticed, gas can accumulate and create a risk for an explosion. Something as small as a lit cigarette or turning on a light switch can create the spark that ignites the gas.
If you smell gas, tell someone. Report it. Leave the area immediately and call 9-1-1.