In an emergency due to a gas odor, what action should you take from a safe location?

In the case of detecting a gas odor, calling 911 is the most appropriate and immediate action to take from a safe location. This option ensures that emergency responders, who are trained to handle hazardous situations, are alerted and can take swift action to assess and manage the risk of an explosion or fire due to the gas leak. Emergency personnel can also help secure the area and ensure everyone's safety, making it critical to involve them right away in high-risk situations involving gas odors.

While notifying the building manager, calling the gas company, or evacuating the building are also important steps to consider, they should follow the immediate action of contacting emergency services. The building manager may not have the same level of training or authority to manage emergencies, and while the gas company needs to be informed, their response may not be as immediate as that of emergency responders. Evacuating the building is essential, but doing so without first notifying those who can take direct action may leave occupants vulnerable should the situation escalate. Thus, reaching out to 911 is the proper first step in any gas odor emergency.