3 months after Durham explosion, officials emphasize power of natural gas

In the wake of the Durham blast, along with another explosion near Charlotte and one in Florida, officials continue to emphasize the power of natural gas.

If the smell of gas is ever detected at a home, a Dominion Energy field service representative will come out to make sure everything is safe.

"Anytime you think you smell it, you should always call to have it checked out," said Neil Crabtree, a field service representative. "It's just a simple phone call, and it doesn't cost you a thing."

Crabtree said the check can be time-consuming but is necessary.

Natural gas is odorless, but gas companies inject a substance to make it smell like rotten eggs.

Dominion Energy stresses that, if you smell the rotten egg smell, leave immediately without touching anything. Because even the smallest thing can cause the gas to ignite.

"Those things can be turning on or off the light switch, lighting something or using your phone," said Persida Montanez, a spokeswoman for Dominion Energy.

The cause of the fatal Durham explosion has not been released, but the fire marshal's report is expected out next week.