Recognizing a Gas Leak
Leaks on interstate natural gas pipelines are rare, but it is still important to know how to recognize the signs of a leak and what steps to take if one were to occur in your area. If you suspect an emergency at a NiSource Gas & Transmission Storage facility, please call 911 or your local fire department and the local NGT&S facility emergency contacts.
If you suspect a leak, watch for one or more of the following signs:
Look
- For dirt being blown or appearing to be thrown into the air.
- For water bubbling or being blown into the air at a pond, creek, river or other wet areas.
- For fire coming from the ground or appearing to burn above the ground.
- For dead or dying vegetation on or near a pipeline right of way in an otherwise green area.
- For a dry or frozen spot on the right of way.
Listen
- For a roaring, blowing or hissing sound.
Smell
- For a gas or petroleum odor (in some pipelines, gas may not be odorized).
If you suspect a pipeline leak:
Do
- Turn off and abandon any motorized equipment.
- Leave the area quickly.
- Warn others to stay away.
- From a safe place, call your local fire department and the appropriate NGT&S toll-free emergency number.
Don’t
- Use open flames or anything that may spark ignition,including cell phones, lights, and appliances.
- Attempt to operate pipeline valves.
- If you have gas service and you detect a natural gas odor in your home or business, leave the area.