Detecting Natural Gas Leaks

From Cascade Natural Gas:
The following may indicated a natural gas leak:

• A blowing, whistling, or hissing sound
• A patch of dry ground in an otherwise damp or wet area
• A patch of discolored soil or dead vegetation
• Dry (or moist) dirt being blown in the air
• Water bubbling or spraying into the air in a mud puddle or wet area
• A sign of fire floating on the ground or around a pipe
• A very strong odor similar to rotten eggs or the smell of a skunk

Pipelines have a good safety record relative to the tremendous volumes of products they carry.  And we strive to have the best trained and dedicated workforce to ensure that our design, construction, and maintenance activities ensure we have the safe and efficient natural gas delivery system you expect, but leaks and pipeline accidents can and sometimes do occur.  Natural gas is flammable, non-toxic, and lighter than air.  A specific mixture of natural gas with air is necessary for ignition.  If there is too much air, or too little gas, it will not ignite.  Properly used and controlled, it is safe and reliable.  The potential consequences of an uncontrolled gas release can be harmful, and even deadly.