America’s Pipeline Network

There are over 300,000 miles of natural pipelines in the United States. Pipelines are the
safest method of transportation. Natural gas provides about 24 percent of all energy used in
the United States.

Pipelines are made of steel, covered with protective coating and or PE plastic pipe buried underground. They are tested and maintained through the use of diagnostic tools and cathodic protection. Village of Dupo personnel will work with local police and fire departments in the event of an emergency.

Our hope is to continue to be a good neighbor and provide you with information to help
you avoid potentially dangerous activity near the gas lines in your area.

Further Information:
If you have any questions or would like more information please call the Village of Dupo at
618-286-3280.
 

 Natural Gas Safety

Carbon Monoxide Awareness:

Carbon monoxide can be a by-product of an inefficient or improperly working gas fired
appliance. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, poisonous gas that kills more than 200 people in the U.S. every year. Make sure your equipment is in good working order and
properly vented. Check files and chimneys to be sure they are clean and clear of debris.

Common symptoms include: Dizziness, Shortness of breath, Headaches; Confusion; Nausea; Fainting.

Natural gas is dependable and safe when used properly. If you suspect a carbon monoxide problem in your home call the Village of Dupo at 286-3280 or after hours at 286-4884 or 911.

 

 Recognize a Leak

Natural gas is lighter than air and will rise. Other heavier-than-air gases will stay near the
ground and collect in low spots. Leaking natural gas is potentially dangerous. Although it is
non-toxic it can displace the oxygen you breath causing suffocation.

You can recognize a leak:

• By Smell. A natural gas leak is indicated by the strong odor of the chemical mercaptan, which is added to natural gas.
• By Sight: a dense white cloud over a pipeline, or discolored vegetation surrounding the
  gas line may be signs of a leak. Also blowing dirt, dust or bubbles in standing water.
• By Sound: an unusual noise coming from the natural gas line, like a hissing or roaring
  sound, may be a sign of a leak.
   

What to do if I recognize a leak . . .

• Leave the leak area immediately.
• If the leak is at your home, leave the door open as you leave.
• Go to a safe location and call the Village of Dupo at 618-286-3280, or after hours at
  286-4884 or 911 giving your name and location of the leak.
   

What NOT to do if I recognize a leak . . .

• DO NOT light a match, turn on or off light switches, turn on a flashlight or anything
  that may create a spark.
• DO NOT use the telephone, cell phone, television or radio.
• DO NOT use an automatic garage door.
• DO NOT turn on gas range or other gas appliance.
   

  Meter Safety

Each natural gas service is equipped with a meter(s) which serves the customer. If a gas line is accidentally broken and a leak is obvious -
shut off any equipment or open flames in the area which might ignite
the gas – evacuate the area and report the leak immediately to the
Village of Dupo at 618-286-3280. In an emergency the gas to any house
can be shut of at the meter.

Gas meters should be kept free from obstructions, such as trees and
shrubs, to provide access to the meter for maintenance as well as in
the event of an emergency.

 Call Before You Dig

Before you dig or excavate, you MUST contact the J.U.L.I.E. – “One-Call” system at 1-800-892-0123 or dial 811. You are required by state law to notify J.U.L.I.E. not less than 2 working days before digging, excavation or demolition activity begins whether landscaping, building fences or a major construction project. The member utility companies will send a representative to mark their underground lines at your site. The call is free and so is the service.

Calling before you dig, either by hand or with machinery, could prevent possible accidents, injuries or death. Remember IT’S THE LAW!
Call 1-800-892-0123 or dial 811.

http://www.ameren.com/AboutUs/ADC_JULIEBrochure.pdf

Can I build or dig on a right-of-way?

Natural gas pipeline right-of-way must be kept free from structures and other obstructions to provide access to the gas line for maintenance, as well as in the event of an emergency. Do
not dig or build near the gas line without first contacting Village of Dupo.

What to do if you dig & disturb or damage a natural gas line:

Even if you cause what appears to be only minor damage to the gas line, notify Village of
Dupo at 618-286-3280 immediately. A gouge, scrape, dent, or crease to the pipe or coating
may cause a future rupture or leak. It is important that Village of Dupo inspects and repairs
any damage to the line. Regardless of how minor the damage appears, don’t cover it up!

Do not attempt to make repairs to the line yourself.