Transportation by pipeline is the safest form of energy delivery the country. In fact, natural gas pipelines transport approximately one-fourth of the energy consumed in the U.S. and is delivered to customers through a 2.5 million mile pipeline system. At Colorado Natural Gas, safety is our #1 Priority and we take every possible step to ensure the safety and reliability of our natural gas systems.
Here is what you should keep in mind:
A majority of gas pipeline leaks occur as a result of individuals digging on their own property. State law requires all excavators and private citizens to contact an 811 center prior to any excavation activities. Once 811 is called, Summit Natural Gas will mark all gas pipelines free of charge.
Although natural gas pipelines have an unparalleled safety record, occasionally leaks do occur.
Although natural gas pipelines have an unparalleled safety record, occasionally leaks do occur.
If you suspect a natural gas leak, call Summit immediately at 1-800-909-7642 from your neighbor’s house or another location away from the leak.
Natural gas does not have an odor, so an odorant called Mercaptan is added to signal a leak. Mercaptan gives off a foul smell, reminiscent of rotten eggs or sulfur.
Under no circumstances should you ever attempt to repair, stop or fix a pipeline leak, or rupture. Trained pipeline technicians with specialized equipment and knowledge are the only individuals qualified to conduct repairs on natural gas pipelines.
For many years, utilities nationwide have installed gas pipelines by boring underground, rather than digging trenches, to avoid tearing up paving and landscaping.
Existing utility facilities, such as underground electrical and pipes, are located and marked in accordance with the requirements of Digsafe laws before new gas pipelines are installed using underground boring technology.
Sometimes, a private underground facility such as private sewer line that is not mapped and cannot be discovered with the use of above-ground locating devices is inadvertently struck by the underground boring machine resulting in what is known as “cross-bore.”
Although natural gas equipment is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, damage can be caused by snow and ice accumulation, as proper ventilation is required to keep equipment running smoothly. Vents for natural gas appliances prevent the accumulation of carbon monoxide within buildings, and ensures combustion equipment operates properly. Customers should check the vents on their home or business and remove any snow or ice from the area. Additionally, Summit Natural Gas encourages all customers to check and test their carbon monoxide detectors to ensure the equipment is working properly.
The natural gas meters should be kept clear of ice and snow to avoid damage to the equipment and the meter should remain visible and accessible for maintenance personnel. Snow and ice should be removed from natural gas equipment as gently as possible, using a broom rather than a shovel or kicking the meter and pipes. Damage to the meter can also occur from overhead hazards, and customers are encouraged to remove icicles from overhead eaves and gutters to prevent dripping water from splashing and freezing on the meter or vent pipe.
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