Pipeline Safety & Public Awareness

Natural Energy Utility Corporation is committed to the safe and reliable delivery of natural gas to the communities we serve. While underground pipelines are one of the safest and most efficient methods of transporting natural gas, public awareness plays an important role in preventing accidents and protecting lives.

The information below explains how to recognize pipeline hazards, dig safely around underground utilities, and respond appropriately if a natural gas leak is suspected.

Pipeline Safety Commitment

Safety is at the core of everything we do. Natural Energy Utility Corporation continually monitors and maintains its natural gas distribution system through regular inspections, maintenance programs, pressure monitoring, odorization, and emergency preparedness efforts. These ongoing programs help ensure the safe and dependable delivery of natural gas to our customers.

Before You Dig — Call 811

Whether you’re planting a tree, installing a fence, or beginning a construction project, always contact 811 before breaking ground.

Calling 811 allows underground utility lines to be located and marked before excavation begins, helping prevent damage to natural gas pipelines and other buried utilities.

For safe excavation:

• Contact 811 before beginning any digging project.
• Wait for underground utilities to be marked.
• Respect all utility markings.
• Dig carefully around marked utilities.
• Never assume underground utilities are deeper than your excavation.

Recognizing a Pipeline Leak

Natural gas leaks may be identified using your senses.

Look

Watch for:

• Dead or discolored vegetation.
• Bubbling water in ponds or streams.
• Dirt or debris blowing into the air.
• Fire or flames coming from the ground.

Listen

A hissing, roaring, or whistling sound near a pipeline or gas line may indicate a leak.

Smell

Natural gas is odorized with mercaptan, giving it the distinctive smell of rotten eggs to help detect leaks.

If You Suspect a Natural Gas Leak

If you suspect a natural gas leak:

• Leave the area immediately.
• Warn others to stay away.
• Call 911 from a safe location.
• Then contact Natural Energy Utility Corporation at (606) 324-3920.

Do NOT:

• Smoke or light matches.
• Operate electrical switches.
• Use telephones or cell phones near the leak.
• Attempt to stop the leak yourself.
• Start vehicles or equipment that could create a spark.

Protecting Our Pipeline System

Natural gas pipelines are monitored and maintained through a variety of safety programs, including:

• Regular inspections and maintenance.
• Emergency preparedness planning.
• Public awareness and damage prevention programs.
• Coordination with local emergency responders.
• Participation in Kentucky’s One-Call (811) system.

These efforts help protect both our customers and the communities we serve.

Additional Resources

For additional information about pipeline safety, excavation practices, and natural gas awareness, we encourage you to review our complete Pipeline Safety & Public Awareness Brochure.

Download:

This brochure is distributed to customers as part of Natural Energy Utility Corporation’s ongoing public awareness and pipeline safety program.