For your safety, markers are used to show the approximate
location of pipelines and identify the companies that operate them. You
should be aware of any pipeline markers in and around your neighborhood.
Write down the name and phone numbers of the pipeline company that’s
listed on the markers in case of an emergency.
An important way you can keep the pipeline in your area
safe is by notifying the operator if you detect a problem.
Because natural gas is non-toxic and lighter than air,
it typically dissipates into the atmosphere. However, natural gas will
burn if mixed with the right amount of oxygen and then ignited by a spark.
Typical pipeline marker
If you sense any of the following emergencies on or near pipeline
rights-of-way or above-ground facilities, leave the area immediately and report
it as soon as possible: (refer to Responding to an
Emergency)
Gas escaping from a pipeline. This may be detected in
any of several ways:
(a) SOUND: Leaks may be accompanied by a loud, high-pitched whistle or roar.
If you hear such a sound in the vicinity of a pipeline, leave immediately
and call the pipeline oerator.
(b) SIGHT: Natural gas is transported in a very dry condition and will remove
the moisture from the soil in the vicinity of a leak. A patch of discolored
soil, dead vegetation or bubbling water along the pipeline should be reported
immediately.
(c) SMELL: Natural gas is odorless, however local distribution companies that
provide gas to communities add an odorant to the gas. If you smell a distinctive,
repugnant odor along the pipeline, please report it.
Fire located near or directly involving a pipeline right-of-way
or other pipeline facility.
Explosion occurring near or directly involving any pipeline
facilities.
