Quick Start Guide Natural Gas Utilities

SECTION 03: KEY SAFETY MESSAGES

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• Before clearing, look for trees or landscaping whose roots could be causing the obstruction. If there are none, a cross bore could be involved, so proceed with caution. If you own or can obtain access to an inline camera, use it to assess the blockage before attempting to clear it. (If the camera view is obstructed due to the clog, vacuum it out first.) If a camera is not available, run a hydro-jetter through the sewer line to clear it. Do not use a cutting tool. • During clearing, if you cannot verify the cause of the blockage, use the least invasive equipment possible, such as a hydro-jetter. If you sense resistance that does not resemble a tree root or other common obstruction, do not force it. Stop immediately and call the local natural gas utility. • If you are present when a sewer line is being cleared, be alert for any of these gas leak indicators: the distinctive, sulfur-like or rotten-egg odor of natural gas; hissing sounds; blowing dirt; or continuous bubbling water in odd places such as a puddle or a toilet. • If you think you have hit a natural gas line and/or you suspect a natural gas leak, warn others and evacuate the premises immediately. Then, from a safe location, call 911 and the local utility and keep others a safe distance away (300 feet). • Do not operate any electrical device that may create a spark (including cell phones); operate any below-ground valves; turn equipment on or off; or operate light switches, remotes, or electrical appliances.

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Developing a Public Safety Communications Program