Emergency Contact: Gas Control (970) 382-0828
24 Hour Gas Control – (970) 764-6953
Signs of a release
Everyone should be aware of the signs of a potential pipeline release. They can be recalled easily by associating them with the senses of sight, smell and sound. While the signs of a release will vary depending on the product that is being transported, following these guidelines will help you respond and summon help safely.
Do you see blowing dirt, a sheen on the water’s surface, or continuous bubbles in a creek, pond, or standing water? Do you know of a fire or an explosion near the location of a pipeline? Has a pipeline been exposed after a heavy rain or natural disaster such as an earthquake or flood? Is there an unusual hump or divot (low spot) where a pipeline runs?
Ensure your safety around oil and gas facilities:
- Know where production sites and pipelines are located.
- Know how to contact the operators.
- Always call 811 and wait the required time before you excavate.
- When developing land near pipeline facilities, consult and coordinate with the operator on land-use planning decisions.
- Report to the operator any damages to the pipeline – no matter how minor – including scratches to the coating or anomalies like dents or gouges.
You should always avoid:
- Building structures on pipeline rights-of-way;
- Touching, climbing on or interfering with production and/or pipeline related facilities;
- Digging around or near a pipeline facility without calling 811 and having a representative of the pipeline company present; and
- Entering a production or pipeline facility property without proper permission.
Call Before You Dig
Statistics indicate that damage from excavation-related activities is a leading cause of pipeline accidents. If you are a homeowner, farmer, excavator, or developer, we need your help in preventing pipeline emergencies.
The Plan is Simple:
- Call your state’s One Call Center (811) at least three working days before excavation is scheduled to begin. It’s the law!
- Wait the required amount of time.
- One of our trained technicians will mark the location of the pipeline with a white line at the excavation site at no cost to you.
- Respect the line markers. There is a line in the area.
- Dig with caution and care.