What is a common sign of a potential gas leak in an environment?

A strong smell of rotten eggs is a common sign of a potential gas leak because propane and natural gas are odorless in their natural state. To make these gases detectable by humans, a strong-smelling odorant called mercaptan is added, which has a distinctive scent reminiscent of rotten eggs. This characteristic odor serves as a crucial safety measure, allowing individuals to identify possible leaks quickly and take appropriate action to ensure safety.

While unusual sounds from appliances might indicate a problem, these sounds can stem from various non-leak-related issues, such as mechanical failure. Vibrations near the gas source could also signal different mechanical issues but do not necessarily indicate a gas leak. Similarly, bright lights flickering could be related to electrical problems rather than gas leaks. Therefore, the rotten egg smell remains the most reliable and recognized indicator of a gas leak that prompts immediate attention.