Natural Gas Leaks
Leak Recognition and Response
1. Potential hazards of products transported
Pipelines carry gaseous materials under high pressure
Natural gas is colorless and lighter than air
Natural gas is flammable
Any pipeline leak can be potentially hazardous
2. How to recognize a pipeline leak. Sight – Smell – Sound
Sight – Look for dirt being blown into the air, mist, fog, bubbling in standing water, fire coming from the ground or dead or dying vegetation.
Sound – Listen for any unusual noise like a roaring, blowing, hissing or whistling.
Smell – Notice any unusual odor. Natural gas is odorless. Decatur Utilities adds an odorant to natural gas to give it a noticeable odor.
3. Response to a pipeline leak
IF YOU DETECT A GAS LEAK:
Turn off and abandon any motorized equipment you may be operating.
If in a building exit the building immediately. If outside a building, evacuate everyone from the building. · Move to a safe environment immediately.
Call Utility provider immediately. In the event of fire or explosion, call 911. Do Not assume someone else will report the condition.
Provide exact location, including any cross streets.
Avoid flames and operating electrical appliances and/or equipment. Do not smoke or light matches.
Do not use telephones (even cellular), flashlights or other items that can produce a spark.
Warn others to stay away.
Do not attempt to correct problem.
Call Alabama One Call at 1-800-292-8525 or dial 811 before digging. See www.al1call.com or www.call811.com for more details.