Pipeline leaks are rare, but you should know what to do in the unlikely event one occurs. Following are several ways to detect a natural gas pipeline leak:

• A roaring, blowing or hissing sound
• Dirt being blown into the air
• Bubbles on the surface or water being blown into the air at a pond, creek or river
• Dead or dying vegetation in an otherwise green area on or near a pipeline right of way
• Fire apparently coming from the ground or burning above the ground
• A dry spot in a moist field

What to do if a leak occurs:

• Leave the area immediately on foot; warn others to stay away or to leave.
• Do not create ignition sources. Do not light a match, start an engine, switch lights on or off or use a telephone. Turn off any lit gas pilot lights.
• Turn off any machinery and equipment; however, if a vapor cloud has surrounded a piece of equipment, do not go into the cloud to turn it off.
• Do not touch, breathe or make contact with leaking gas.
• From a safe place, call 911 or your local emergency response number and Kern River's 24-hour emergency number at 800-272-4817. Give your name, telephone number, a description of the leak and its location.
• Do not attempt to extinguish a natural gas fire or stop the leak by operating any pipeline equipment.