Pipelines Near Your Home or Business

Are you prepared in the unlikely event of a pipeline leak or rupture?

The first thing you should know is how to identify, respond to and prevent a leak or rupture.

Use your Senses for Identifying a Leak

• Smell – Many petroleum products have a distinct smell. “Sour” crude oil contains a toxic gas called hydrogen sulfide (H2S) recognized by its rotten egg odor. If you encounter this smell, you may have a leak.
• Sight – Look for brown patches of vegetation or a pool of liquid above the pipeline. A low-lying fog around a pipeline could indicate a propane leak. A rainbow sheen on water is another sign of a possible leak.
• Sound – There may be a hissing or roaring sound associated with some pipeline leaks.

If You Suspect a Pipeline Leak or Other Problem:

1. Get away from the area and keep others away.
2. Call 9-1-1.
3. Call CPPL’s emergency hotline: 1-877-267-2290.
4. DO NOT attempt to operate pipeline valves or other pipeline equipment.
5. DO NOT turn on an engine or drive into an area where there could be a petroleum product leak.

Please review the attached brochure for more information on locating pipelines. The brochure also contains information about calling 8-1-1- before you dig, and how to protect pipelines and rights-of-way.

Please ensure the safety of your family and employees, and protect your property by making sure you know the location of pipelines near your residence or business.

Maintaining Rights-of-Way

A right-of-way is a strip of ground where  pipelines or other underground utilities are buried. Pipeline rights-of-way must be kept free from structures and other obstructions to provide access to the pipeline for maintenance, as well as in the event of an emergency. If a pipeline crosses your property, please do not plant tress or large shrubs on the right-of-way. Easements must remain clear so inspections can be performed. Do not dig, build, store, or place anything on or near the right-of-way without first having the pipeline company's personnel mark the pipeline or stake the right-of-way and explain the company's construction and easement requirements to you.