What should I do if I see a pipeline leak?

Safety / Recognizing an Emergency

As rare as they are, pipeline leaks do happen. Here’s how to recognize an emergency and what to do.

Recognizing the signs of an emergency

If you are near a pipeline right-of-way and you see or hear any of the following, it could indicate a leak:

An unusual whistling, hissing or roaring sound could indicate product leaking from a pipeline
A smell of petroleum could indicate an oil leak, and the smell of rotten eggs could indicate a natural gas leak
Damaged or discoloured vegetation
A build-up of frost on the ground or pools of liquid
Bubbles rising in free-standing water
Isolated vapour or mist clouds

Protecting yourself in an emergency

If you notice any of the signs listed above, here’s what you should do:

Leave the area immediately — if possible, walk into the wind for at least 750 metres
Warn any others nearby to evacuate, particularly if there are children or others requiring assistance
Extinguish any fires, smoking materials and potential ignition or spark sources – including any unnecessary electronic equipment
Call 911
Call the pipeline company — look for pipeline right of way and warning signs for emergency call numbers

Responding to an emergency

While emergencies are a rare occurrence, every CEPA member engages in exhaustive planning, preparation and practice to ensure they are ready for anything. When an incident occurs, CEPA members collaborate with emergency response teams to stop the leak, contain the spill and limit impact to the environment.

They follow Emergency Response Plans that are developed to cover any scenario, and then rehearsed to ensure smooth execution. Pipeline companies also train and work with municipal Emergency Services to ensure they are prepared to assist.

Getting information on alerts

Canada has an Alert Ready system, which was developed in partnership with federal, provincial and territorial emergency management officials, Environment Canada and the broadcast industry to ensure Canadians receive alerts immediately and know how to stay safe. The system handles various alerts, including hazardous material releases, environmental disasters and terrorist threats. www.theweathernetwork.com/alert-ready

You Asked

How closely are pipelines monitored? Is there daily visual or aerial inspections of all pipeline routes? Are there pressure and flow meters along all lines hooked up to valves that can automatically close if there is a sudden drop in pressure or flow from the readings further up the lines?

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