Gas Pipeline Safety Answers
- The Utility Locator Service at 811 makes sure underground pipelines and other utilities are clearly marked ahead of time so people can dig a safe distance away from them. This helps prevent serious accidents, because if people dig into these pipelines, they can be damaged and natural gas can leak out. Even a small leak can cause a fire hazard.
- The five signs of an outdoor gas pipeline leak are:
- A sulfur-like or rotten-egg smell
- Dirt spraying or blowing into the air
- A hissing or roaring sound
- Continual bubbling in water
- Grass or plants dead or dying for no apparent reason.
- If you suspect an outdoor gas pipeline leak:
- Leave the area immediately and move to a safe location.
- Ask a trusted adult to call 911 and the local natural gas utility.
- Do not go back to the area near the leak until safety officials say it is safe.
- Do not use fire or electricity—a spark from a match, phone, or electrical device (even a doorbell or radio) could ignite the gas.
- c) If you see a colored flag, you should leave it alone. These flags show people where buried utilities are located so they can dig safely away from them.
- d) all of the above
- Posters will vary.