Natural gas pipelines can be in many different locations; front, rear or side yard utility easements; in the road or in the swale area of the right-of-way, or a private easement. Everyone who lives or works in an area where there are natural gas pipelines should be aware of the signs of a gas line leak.

LOOK - Certain soil conditions can lessen the odor of an underground gas leak. Don't rely on smell alone. Any of the these conditions could be the result of a gas line leak:

• Area of abnormally dry soil for the location
• Brown or dying plants in an otherwise green area
• Dirt or dust being blown up into the air
• Bubbling puddle of water or other body of water 

LISTEN - From a quiet hissing or whistling to a loud roar, like a jet engine. The sound may seem to be coming from the ground or near the gas meter.

SMELL - An unusual bad smell or odor in the air. We add a very pungent odorant to the gas to give it that distinctive "rotten egg" or "skunky" odor.

What to do if you suspect an outdoor gas leak

• Turn off and leave any equipment like a lawn mower of excavation equipment
• DO NOT smoke, or use a lighter or a match
• DO NOT start any motors or move any cars
• DO NOT try to find or stop a gas leak
• Immediately move away from the area in an upwind direction (face into the wind)
• Warn others to stay away from the area
• Move well away from the area and call the Gas Department at (954) 572-2299 or 9-1-1