Natural gas is a versatile form of non-polluting fuel. The
most common method for transporting it is under high pressure in underground
pipelines. Should our pipelines become damaged and natural gas escapes, you
should be aware that:
It is colorless and generally odorless, unless it contains
a naturally occurring odor or has an odorant added.
It is lighter than air and will rise and dissipate rapidly.
Natural gas is neither toxic nor poisonous, but it can
cause suffocation in a confined space because of its ability to displace oxygen
in the blood.
Natural gas will burn when mixed with air and ignited.
Escaping gas can be ignited from open flames, sparks from electrical switches
and motors, mechanical equipment, moving rocks, etc.
Components of Natural Gas (percentages are
approximate and will vary)
Methane 96.0 percent
Nitrogen < 0.3 percent
Ethane < 1.5 percent
Other hydrocarbons, each less than 0.1 percent
to 1.4 percent
