Signs of a Petroleum Pipeline Release

• A Strange or unusual smell in the area of pipeline.
• Discoloration of vegetation surrounding the pipeline in an otherwise green area.
• Bubbling in wet areas, marshlands, rivers or creeks, or an oily or multi-colored sheen appearing on water surfaces.
• Flames originating from the ground or valves along the pipeline route.

Petroleum Hazards

• Petroleum products are flammable, may be poisonous if inhaled and may contain chemicals that cause cancer.

• Petroleum products may have a gaseous odor, their vapors are heavier than air and will tend to collect in low-lying areas.

Signs of a Propane Pipeline Release

• A slight mist of ice or a frozen area on exposed pipes, valves or the ground.

• A dense white cloud of fog.

• Propane is odorless and transported in pipelines as a high-pressure liquid that will vaporize if released into the air.

Propane Hazards

• Propane is extremely flammable and explosive.

• Propane is heavier than air; will tend to collect in low-lying places and may form a liquid pool.

• Contact with propane liquid may result in frostbite.

Signs of a Natural Gas Pipeline Release

• A loud roar or squeal from the area of a pipeline.

• A natural gas odor.

• Fire or explosion.

• Continuous flying debris or water from an excavation or pipeline.

• Bubbling in wet areas, marshlands, rivers or creeks.

Natural Gas Hazards

• Natural gas is flammable and explosive.  

• Natural gas will displace air and cause dizziness or loss of consciousness.

• Natural gas is lighter than air and will rise from a leak source.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU SUSPECT A LEAK

• Do leave the area or building immediately, by foot, in a direction away from the vapors and fumes.
• Do avoid anything that could cause the vapors to ignite.
• Do not light a match, start an engine, operate any electrical device (telephone, light switch, doorbell, garage door opener, etc.). Avoid carpeted areas that could cause a static electric spark.
• Do not take time to open windows, turn off pilot lights or other equipment.
• Do not ventilate the affected area. It will make detecting the specific site of the leak virtually impossible.
• Do call Security at X6999 and Physical Plant at X6602 and/or the fuel supplier from a remote location.
• Do not drive into or near the area around the leak.
• Do not try to extinguish a fire on a pipeline or operate any pipeline equipment.
• Do warn others to stay away from area.

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