Need help...new to using a furnace?

Better safe than sorry around gas. If you don't know what's wrong with it call the maintenance man. Explain to him that you've never had gas before and would really like to know about checking that the gas is on "at the heater" and how to check for and light, if needed, the pilot light. There is nothing stupid about being cautious around something you are unfamiliar with and something which can be dangerous if improperly activated. A good maintenance man will understand that and give you a complete run down on what to do and what not to do.