Outdoor Gas Leaks: Warning Signs

Response tactics for outdoor leaks differ from those for indoor leaks, as gas leaks from outdoor sources may involve higher-pressure pipelines.

Be alert for the distinctive, sulfur-like or rotten-egg odor of mercaptan as well as any of the following gas leak warning signs:

  • Continuous bubbling in water
  • A hissing, whistling or roaring sound
  • Dead or dying vegetation (in an otherwise moist area) over or near a gas pipeline
  • Dirt blowing into the air
  • A damaged connection to a gas appliance
  • An exposed pipeline after a fire, flood or other disaster