LOOK for blowing dirt or continued bubbling in standing water,
dead or discolored vegetation.
LISTEN near a natural gas appliance or line; there may be a
hissing or roaring sound when natural gas is leaking.
SMELL for the distinctive, rotten-egg odor associated with
natural gas.
Note: Do not rely solely on the recognition of the scent of
the odor, because of diminished sense of smell due to age or
extended exposure, you may not immediately smell the odorant.
In addition, the strength of the odorant may fade over time.
However, some gas lines due to their unique function may not
have odor at all.
LEAVE the area immediately if you detect a natural gas leak.
Don’t try to identify the source or to stop the leak yourself.
AVOID contact with anything that may cause a spark. This includes using lighters, matches, cigarettes, flashlights, light switches, cellphones and telephones in the area of the suspected leak.
You should even wait until you are away from the area to use a cell phone.
CALL 911, your local gas company (see list inside) and Georgia 811 once you are out of the area of the suspected leak and in a safe place. Stay away until a representative from the pipeline operator or emergency personnel indicates it is safe to return.
REMEMBER
Contact Georgia 811 before you dig by either dialing 811
or online at Georgia811.com
Wait the required amount of time (Forty eight hours notice
beginning the next business day after such notice is provided, excluding hours during days other than business days.)
Check the Positive Response Information System (PRIS) to
see how utilities have responded to your locate request – Call
888.670.2902, access it online at Georgia811.com or download the GA811 mobile app for Apple and Android devices.
Respect the Marks, Dig With Care
Natural gas has that “rotten egg” odor added for
your protection. However, some gas lines due to their unique
function may not have odor at all.
If you or someone you are working with hits a natural gas line
or smell, see or hear gas escaping while digging or excavating,
please do the following:
Do not use any devices that might create a spark
Go to a nearby phone and dial 911 and local pipeline
operator’s emergency line
Keep everyone away from the line break until the site is
made safe