East Bay Gas Lines - The 3 Rs of Natural Gas Safety

The 3 Rs of Natural Gas Safety

If you think you have a natural gas emergency, go to a safe location. Then call your local utility company,  It is important that you call -- DO NOT E-MAIL -- and report the emergency. Knowing how to recognize, react to and report natural gas emergencies can eliminate or minimize their consequences. Recognize Signs of a natural gas leak include: A "rotten egg" odor A blowing or hissing sound Dead or discolored vegetation in an otherwise green area Flames, if a leak has ignited Dirt or dust blowing from a hole in the ground Bubbling in wet or flooded areas

React

If you suspect a natural gas leak, follow these steps:

• Leave the area immediately and call your local utiliy company
• Do not use any electrical device, such as light switches, telephones or appliances such as garage door openers. They could spark and ignite the gas.
• Do not use an open flame, matches or lighters
• Do not try to locate the source of the gas leak
• Do not try to shut off any gas valves or appliances
• Do not start vehicles
• Do not re-enter the building or return to the area until a Consumers Energy employee says it's safe to do so
• If the natural gas ignites, let it burn. Do not put out the flame; burning gas will not explode.
• If you are digging and think you may have damaged a natural gas pipeline, leave the area immediately. If you are using motorized equipment and can turn off the motor safely, do so to prevent the ignition of any leaking gas. Then abandon the equipment and leave the area. Never restart equipment until the surrounding environment has been checked and declared safe.

Report

It is important that you call about natural gas emergencies.

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