Free Natural Gas Detectors and Smoke Detectors Easily Available in NYC

By Yehudit Garmaise

To prevent dangerous explosions that, chas v’shalom, can result from gas leaks from appliances, such as hot water heaters, central heating, and gas range ovens, Con Edison is offering to install free natural gas detectors.

In a process that costs nothing and takes approximately one hour, Con Ed also will replace devices that are due for replacement, reported the FDNY, which encourages New Yorkers to take advantage of the free detectors, which simultaneously alert dangerous levels of natural gas in the air to residents, the FDNY, and Con Ed's gas emergency response center.

“Natural gas detectors are as important as seat belts, door locks, and smoke detectors,” said Con Ed, which called natural gas detectors, “lifesaving technology.” 

To schedule free installations, customers can call Con Ed at 1-(800)-643-1289, and select “Option 4,” or email [email protected]. 

Whether caused by gas leaks, unattended candles, or cigarettes left burning, 86 New Yorkers citywide have already died in fires so far in 2023, according to the FDNY, which added that as the temperature drops, the incidence of fires usually increases.

"Even as we work to update building codes, even as we tackle, critical new, emerging threats, like lithium-ion batteries, we also want to go back to the basics and remind New Yorkers that working smoke alarms save lives," said FDNY Commissioner Laura Kavanagh. 

With winter around the corner, the FDNY reminds New Yorkers to ensure their homes also feature working smoke detectors, with fresh batteries.

Thanks to a unified effort among the Home Fire Campaign, the American Red Cross, and the FDNY, New Yorkers can request free smokes alarm here.