Methane & Your Health

Most people know that gas leaks can cause deadly explosions, but gas appliances are also a threat to your health, even without leaks. Like any fossil fuel, methane gas emits noxious fumes when burned. The resulting mix of nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), benzene, and other pollutants have serious health ramifications.
Nitrogen dioxide exposure results in increased respiratory symptoms, asthma attacks and hospital admissions. Long-term NO₂ exposure is likely to cause asthma, especially in children, and can increase the risk of diabetes, cancer, and premature death. Richmond consistently rates among the worst cities for asthma.

Many homes with gas-burning appliances frequently exceed Environmental Protection Agency outdoor air quality standards, but because indoor air is unregulated by the EPA, the toxic fumes are perfectly legal.
New research is documenting the health impacts of cooking with gas. Risks include exposure to indoor air pollutants including nitrogen oxide, methane, benzene, and carbon monoxide in the home.