USE YOUR SENSES TO RECOGNIZE A NATURAL GAS LEAK

A majority of gas pipeline leaks occur as a result of individuals digging on their own property. State law requires all excavators and private citizens to contact an 811 center prior to any excavation activities. Once 811 is called, Summit Natural Gas will mark all gas pipelines free of charge.

Although natural gas pipelines have an unparalleled safety record, occasionally leaks do occur.

How to Recognize a Natural Gas Leak

It’s important to know the signs and hazards of a natural gas leak.

Although natural gas pipelines have an unparalleled safety record, occasionally leaks do occur.

Here are some signs of a natural gas leak:

Here are some hazards you need to be aware of:

If you suspect a natural gas leak, call Summit immediately at 1-800-909-7642 from your neighbor’s house or another location away from the leak.

If you smell gas, act fast!

Natural gas does not have an odor, so an odorant called Mercaptan is added to signal a leak. Mercaptan gives off a foul smell, reminiscent of rotten eggs or sulfur.

If a natural gas leak is suspected, NEVER do anything that might cause a spark. This includes:

Most leaks are small and not dangerous, but if a leak is suspected, always comply with the following procedure to be safe:

Under no circumstances should you ever attempt to repair, stop or fix a pipeline leak, or rupture. Trained pipeline technicians with specialized equipment and knowledge are the only individuals qualified to conduct repairs on natural gas pipelines.


Emergency Contact Information

To request that pipelines near your home or business be located:

811 or 888-DIG-SAFE or 877-DIG-SAFE

To report an emergency, call:

911 or 800-909-7642

Maine Safety Brochure