Crisis Averted

During Christmas I thought I smelled gas in and around the tree by the fireplace.  We don't have a gas fireplace, so I really didn't think much of it.  But while we were away on our trip, I realized that the main gas service valve is just outside of the window by the tree.

I called the gas company today and they arrived in less than an hour.  What they found was a very old valve left in place under the house.  I have no idea how old it is, but by the looks of it, it could be very, very old.

I am grateful for the courteous and professional service of the gas company.  A potentially volatile crisis averted.