Is it ok to admonish a stranger for farting in public

[Anonymous]

For example, in a shared space such as the metro, starbucks, waiting in line at the grocery store if a stranger passes malodorous gas is it ok to say something critical?

What about a slightly different scenario where the flatulence is audible but has no discernible odor? Is it the noise, the smell or either that is rude.

I ask because I was behind a serial gas-passer while waiting in line at DCRA today and it was awful. I did say something but immediately regretted it.

[Anonymous]

I don't think you can say anything in this case. (S)he who smelt it, dealt it.

[Anonymous]

Whoever smelt it, dealt it.

[Anonymous]

I started laughing when I read this - sorry. My husband farts from time to time as we all do. On more then one occasion he has let one rip in a public place. Not on purpose mind you. The reaction of a prim and proper lady standing nearby has been priceless. We felt like two teens carrying out a harmless prank.

[Anonymous]

WTF? No, you don't deliberately embarrass someone like that. They may not have been able to hold it in.

[Anonymous]

It was probably unavoidable. It's not like the person is doing it on purpose to annoy people. All you did was ruin the person's day by complaining about it.

[Anonymous]

I find this hysterical. I would have paid to see it. But seriously, what if their stomach was upset? Not like they could help it (well, unless they were sonorous and fruity).

[Anonymous]

No, you shouldn't say anything. I agree that it's gross and very rude, but this is an instance where it's not your place to correct another adult's behavior. You were rude to say anything. Also, it might be a medical issue which is causing the problem. No need to make them feel any worse than they already do - I suspect they are just as embarrassed.

You say you regretted saying something which should answer your question...you were out of line in saying anything.

[Anonymous]

Wow, what did you say?

I mean, what's there to be done? Do you say something because you want them to apologize, or excuse themselves? Or say something in the hopes they'll stop? (even though they probably can't). I guess I would not say anything (though I'd be shooting all sorts of dirty looks) because there's no real remedy.

[Anonymous]

Very impolite, OP. I would never do that! What did you hope to gain?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:WTF? No, you don't deliberately embarrass someone like that. They may not have been able to hold it in.

+1

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Wow, what did you say?

I mean, what's there to be done? Do you say something because you want them to apologize, or excuse themselves? Or say something in the hopes they'll stop? (even though they probably can't). I guess I would not say anything (though I'd be shooting all sorts of dirty looks) because there's no real remedy.

http://www.myshreddies.com/

Not a remedy, but maybe helps...?

[Anonymous]

No, you never know what may be going on with their health.

[Anonymous]

What the hell is a "serial gas passer?"

I think you have a bigger problem then the flatulent person, OP.

[Anonymous]

I never would say anything. What if it were his regular odor, not flatulence? And if you heard it, then smelled it, I still think you pretend you didnt.

Unless you have a 2 year old with you ... then you can say "OMG did you just shit your pants?" very loudly.