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What should be done immediately if one detects a gas leak?

  1. Turn off all electrical appliances

  2. Evacuate the area and call emergency services

  3. Open windows for ventilation

  4. Ignite a small flame to determine the leak size

The correct answer is: Evacuate the area and call emergency services

The immediate action that should be taken upon detecting a gas leak is to evacuate the area and call emergency services. This response is crucial for ensuring safety. Gas leaks can lead to fire hazards or explosions; therefore, the priority is to remove all individuals from the vicinity to prevent any potential harm. Calling emergency services is essential so trained professionals can manage the situation safely and effectively. While the other options may seem relevant in different contexts, they do not prioritize safety in the same way. Turning off all electrical appliances might cause sparks, which could ignite a gas leak. Opening windows for ventilation could also increase the risk of an explosion by introducing fresh air that fuels a fire. Igniting a small flame to determine the leak size is extremely dangerous and could lead to a catastrophic incident. Thus, evacuating the area and contacting emergency services is the safest and most responsible course of action.