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The immediate action of leaving the area and contacting proper personnel is crucial when high levels of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) are detected on a gas meter. H2S is a highly toxic and flammable gas, and exposure can pose serious health risks, including respiratory distress or even fatality. If the alarm is not functioning, there is no reliable warning system to alert individuals about dangerous levels of the gas, heightening the likelihood of exposure.

Therefore, prioritizing personal safety by evacuating the area protects individuals from potential harm. After leaving the site, notifying specialized personnel or emergency responders enables them to assess the situation, take appropriate measures to mitigate the hazard, and ensure that the area is safe before anyone returns.

Inspecting the gas meter for issues could be important for long-term maintenance or troubleshooting, but it is not a suitable immediate response in a dangerous situation with a malfunctioning alarm. Similarly, contacting a technician to fix the alarm or turning off equipment may not directly address the immediate danger posed by H2S exposure, as the highest priority must be the safety of individuals in the vicinity.