Meeting Presentation
Natural Gas Product Characteristics
Leak Type:
Gas
Vapors:
Lighter than air
Health Hazards:
Extremely high concentrations may cause irritation or asphyxiation when displacement of oxygen occurs in enclosed spaces
Fire Hazards:
Extremely flammable and easily ignited by heat, sparks, or flames
How To Recognize a Gas Pipeline Leak
Visual signs:
Persistent bubbling in standing water, blowing dirt, or discolored vegetation are signs of a possible leak around the pipeline.
Sound:
Note any unusual noise like a hissing or roaring sound
Smell:
Odor is an easy way to identify the release of natural gas. Natural gas in its original state is odorless. An additive is injected into the gas to help people near the pipeline smell and identify the release of natural gas. That additive smells like rotten eggs
How does the City of Uvalde respond to an Emergency?
In the unlikely event of an emergency, the City of Uvalde will immediately dispatch trained personnel upon notification of an emergency. Effective communication and coordination between Emergency Responders and the City of Uvalde is important for successful management of pipeline incidents. The City of Uvalde will take operational steps to minimize the impact of the emergency.
Respond to and report a pipeline emergency
The following guidelines are designed to ensure your safety and the safety of those in the area if a pipeline leak is suspected or detected.
- DO NOT operate any pipeline valves or equipment
- Secure the area around the leak
- Evacuate the public
- Contact the City of Uvalde as soon as possible at 830-278-6616 (M-F 8 a.m.-5 p.m.). After hours and during holidays, call 830-278-9147. We answer emergency calls 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
- Establish a command center
- Control ignition sources. If the pipeline leak is not burning, take steps to prevent causing any open flame or other potential source of ignition, such as an electrical switch, vehicle ignition, lighting of a match, etc.
- DO NOT use a cell phone or two-way radio near the suspected emergency area
- DO NOT attempt to put out natural gas or liquid fires. If burning, control the secondary fires