Natural Gas Pipeline Safety
PPL Gas Utilities operates approximately 4800 miles of natural gas pipelines. Public safety is our first priority in all of our natural gas operations.
How to recognize a gas pipeline leak
Natural gas is colorless and odorless, so gas companies add a harmless odorant so leaks can be detected by smell. Indications of a gas leak include:
• A gas or petroleum odor
• A hissing sound
• Blowing dirt, grass or leaves near a pipeline
• Water bubbling or blowing into the air at a pond, creek or river
• A patch of dead grass or vegetation in an otherwise green area
• Flames coming out of the ground or burning above the ground
If you suspect a gas leak
DO:
1. Turn off and abandon any motorized equipment.
2. Immediately leave the area on foot in an upwind direction.
3. Warn others to stay away.
4. From a safe place, call PPL Gas Utilities and 911, or your local fire or police department.
DO NOT:
1. Bring open flames, smoking materials, cell phones, flashlights, motor vehicles or other sources of ignition into the area.
2. Attempt to operate any pipeline valves you see.
3. Attempt to put out any gas fire.
Report pipeline contacts
If you hit or touch a gas pipeline while digging, contact PPL Gas Utilities immediately at 1-800-652-0550. A gouge, scratch or dent to the pipeline or its coating may cause a future safety problem. It is important that PPL Gas Utilities inspect and repair any damage.
Call before you dig
If you damage a gas pipeline while digging, you endanger your safety and the safety of others. You may also be liable for costly repairs. Don’t take any chances and call before you dig.
If you plan to do any digging, call Pennsylvania One Call at 1-800-242-1776 so that utilities can mark the location of underground pipelines and cables in your project area. In Maryland, call 1-800-247-7777.
Brochure
Natural Gas Pipeline Safety (PDF)