Leak Recognition and Response

A gas leak is usually recognized by smell, sight, or sound:

• SMELL. Natural gas is colorless and odorless. Typically, a distinct and recognizable odorant is added to natural gas so that people detect and recognize it quickly.
• SIGHT. A dust cloud, mist, fog, bubbles in standing water, or vegetation that appears to be dead or dying for no apparent reason.
• SOUND. An unusual noise like roaring, hissing, or whistling.

What should you do if you suspect a leak:

• MOVE to a safe location.
• CALL local emergency responders at 911 and Iroquois Gas Control at 800-888-3982.
• DO NOT strike a match, use telephones, operate engines and motors, switch lights or appliances on or off, or even turn on a flashlight in the area where you smell gas. These items can produce sparks that might ignite the gas and cause an explosion.

For Emergency Personnel:

• SECURE the site and take steps to eliminate ignition sources
• EVACUATE the general public from the vicinity of the leak
• CONTROL secondary fires
• DO NOT try to extinguish a gas burning fire unless there is a threat to life
• CONTACT Iroquois at 800-888-3982.

For Excavators:

• STOP work, shut down all equipment, and evacuate the site to a safe distance
• CALL 911 if there is blowing gas
• CALL Iroquois at 800-888-3982
• DO NOT strike a match, use telephones, operate engines and motors, switch lights or appliances on or off, or even turn on a flashlight in the area where you smell gas. These items can produce sparks that might ignite the gas and cause an explosion.
• ALERT everyone on the premises
• KEEP the public and traffic away
• DO NOT try to fix the pipe or slow the rate of leaking gas
• If you suspect or become aware of a dent, scratch, or coating damage to the pipeline, NOTIFY Iroquois immediately at 800-888-3982

Updated 7/24/06

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