More than 2.2 million miles of gas pipelines criss-cross the United States, with another 4,400 miles of new pipeline being added this year alone.

With this many miles in the ground, pipeline hits are a big deal. Last year, there were 7 recorded injuries and $39 million in property damage caused by rupture from gas transmission lines. Sixty percent of these accidents resulted from construction activities. Even minor hits, such as a gouge, scrape, dent, or crease to a pipeline or its coating, may cause a leak or failure.

Here are some tips to help you avoid, identify, and react to a gas leak if one occurs:

Call Before you Dig: You are required by law to contact a local One Call Center before you start excavating on any property, public or private. The center will contact the gas utility operator in the area so the pipelines can be marked before you dig. There is no cost for this service.

• In New York, call 1-800-962-7962, or use the new national ‘811’ One-Call phone number.

Use Your Senses: A gas leak can often recognized by smell, sight, or sound.

• SMELL – A pungent odor similar to rotten eggs is often added to the odorless gas, so you can recognize a leak quickly. However, not all transmission lines are odorized.
• SIGHT – Look for a white cloud, mist, fog, bubbles in standing water, or blowing dust. You may also see flames coming out of or above the ground, or vegetation that appears to be dying for no apparent reason.
• SOUND – Listen for unusual noises like roaring, hissing, or whistling.

Take Action: If you suspect a leak.

• Turn off and abandon any motorized equipment. Move to a safe environment.
• Immediately call 911 or your local fire or police department to report the exact location of the problem.
• Let officials know if construction activities are going on in the area.
• Do not attempt to put out a gas fire or operate pipeline valves, electrical switches, or appliances.