What should be done if a gas leak is suspected?

When a gas leak is suspected, the priority is safety, and ensuring proper ventilation and immediate reporting of the situation is the most critical first step. Ventilation helps to disperse any accumulated gas, reducing the risk of explosion or other hazards associated with gas leaks. Opening windows or doors can facilitate this process and provide fresh air to the area.

Reporting the leak promptly to professionals or emergency services allows for a swift response to mitigate the danger, including shutting off the gas supply and assessing the situation thoroughly. Trained personnel can then take the appropriate actions to resolve the issue, ensuring safety for everyone in the vicinity.

The other options, such as ignoring the leak, sealing fittings, or using a lighter to check for leakage, pose significant safety risks and should never be considered in the event of a suspected gas leak. Ignoring the leak can lead to disastrous consequences, and sealing fittings or checking with flames could ignite the gas, creating an immediate fire hazard.