Natural Gas Division
Gas Leaks and Emergencies
Knowing what a natural gas emergency is and how to react will help keep you and your family safe. Examples are natural gas leaks and damaged underground pipelines or service lines. Leaks can occur on indoor lines or when outdoor lines are damaged.
The Three Rs of Natural Gas Safety
If you think you have a natural gas emergency, go to a safe location. Then call 911 or 586-9454, 24 hours a day. It is important that you call to report the emergency.
Knowing how to recognize, react to and report natural gas emergencies can eliminate or minimize their consequences.
Recognize
Signs of a natural gas leak include:
- A "rotten egg" odor
- A blowing or hissing sound
- Dead or discolored vegetation in an otherwise green area
- Flames, if a leak has ignited
- Dirt or dust blowing from a hole in the ground
- Bubbling in wet or flooded areas
React
If you suspect a natural gas leak, follow these steps:
- Leave the area immediately and call 911 or 586-9454.
- Do not use any electrical device, such as light switches, telephones or appliances such as garage door openers. They could spark and ignite the gas.
- Do not use an open flame, matches or lighters.
- Do not try to locate the source of the gas leak.
- Do not try to shut off any gas valves or appliances.
- Do not start vehicles.
- Do not re-enter the building or return to the area until a City of Benson employee says it's safe to do so.
- If the natural gas ignites, let it burn. Do not put out the flame; burning gas will not explode.
- If you are digging and think you may have damaged a natural gas pipeline, leave the area immediately. If you are using motorized equipment, do not turn off the motor or move the machinery. Abandon the equipment and leave the area. Never restart equipment until the surrounding environment has been checked and declared safe. Make sure to be up wind of the machinery.
Report
It is important that you call about natural gas emergencies. Do not e-mail us.
- If you think you have a natural gas emergency, go to a safe location. Then call 911 or 586-9454.
- If you see unusual activity near a natural gas pipeline or facility, call 911 or 586-9454 immediately.
Calls can be made 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We will respond promptly and at no charge.