Safety

Recognizing a Pipeline Leak

An indication of a pipeline leak may include one or more of the following:

  • A pool of liquid on the ground near a pipeline, a dense white cloud or fog over a pipeline, or discolored vegetation surrounding the pipeline; an unusual dry spot in an otherwise moist field; bubbling in marshland, rivers or creeks, or an oily sheen appearing on the water surfaces may be signs of a leak.
  • An unusual noise coming from the pipeline, such as a hissing or roaring sound, may be a sign of a leak
  • An unusual smell or gaseous odor will sometimes accompany a pipeline leak
  • Dirt blowing up from the ground
  • Frozen ground at the pipeline in warm weather

What to do if you suspect a leak: What NOT to do if you suspect a leak:

  • Immediately leave the area.
  • If possible turn off any equipment being used and move upwind from the suspected leak
  • From a safe location, call 911 or your local emergency response number and the pipeline company.  Call collect, if needed, and give your name phone number, description of the leak and its location.
  • Warn others to stay away when possible.

  • Do not touch, breathe, or make contact with leaking gas or liquids. Stay upwind if possible.
  • Do not light a match, start an engine, use a telephone, turn on or off any type of electrical switch such as a light, garage door opener, etc., or do anything that may create a static spark.
  • Do not attempt to extinguish any pipeline fire that may start.
  • Do not drive into a leak or vapor cloud area, Automobile engines may ignite the vapors.
  • Do not attempt to operate valves.