PROFESSOR THADDEUS LOWE
INVENTIONS AND INDUSTRY
Natural Gas Patent
On July 22, 1875 Thaddeus Lowe got a patent to process natural gas, and his many innovations soon made it popular for residential use. Gas in its natural state is clear and odorless, making it highly dangerous. Gas piped into your home has an odor added so you can detect even small amounts of it escaping. When you smell gas, it's serious. Turn off any flames, open windows and doors and get out as quickly as possible. Don't turn on light switches or use the phone to call the gas company. The tiniest spark could cause an explosion. Once outside, close the main shutoff valve and use a neighbor's phone to report the problem. Remember that the smell of gas is there for a reason. Never ignore it, regardless of how minor it might seem to be. And that's the On The House tip for today.