Multiple communities are reeling after major home explosions in the Midwest this past week.

There were two people killed and one injured after a home exploded in Bethel, Ohio.

There was a similar scene of destruction in a small township outside of Detroit where at least four buildings were damaged after a gas explosion in a home.

It's a scene we experienced here in the Valley just last month when four people died in a home explosion in Ellsworth Township.

As we fire up our furnaces this season, it's important to remember gas safety protocols to prevent a leak or an explosion.

Stephanie Moore with Dominion Energy tells 21 News explosions don't happen very often.

"These events are rare when you consider that more than half of American households use natural gas as their main heating source," Moore said. "It does have an excellent safety record," she said.

However, that's not to say gas emergencies never happen. Moore encourages people to do a thorough inspection and maintenance on gas equipment in the home.

"Homeowners are responsible for the equipment from the gas meter to their appliances," Moore said. "We recommend that you have your natural gas appliances inspected annually by a qualified contractor," she said.

If those efforts fail, there are a few tell tale signs you're experiencing a gas emergency.

"Natural gas has an odorant added to it and it smells like rotten eggs, it's an unforgettable odor," Moore said. "The second thing is to trust your sight. Outside blowing dirt, bubbling water or an unusual area of dead vegetation are all signs of a gas leak," she said.

A hissing sound is also among the signs. If you do find yourself dealing with this kind of an emergency, Moore has a few tips on what to do.

"Leave the building immediately and get to a safe distance from the structure," Moore said. "The most important piece of that is please don't try and locate the leak yourself, get a safe distance away," she said.

When you're far enough away, then call 911 and Enbridge Gas Ohio at 1-877-542-2630.