Okaloosa Gas District Gives Its Communities Four Simple Tasks

What is widely known as one of the safest, most reliable and environmentally friendly fuels in use today? If you guessed natural gas, you’re in the know. Underground pipelines bring natural gas to millions of homes, businesses and industries throughout the United States. These extraordinary underground “highways” are the nation’s safest form of energy transportation.

“Okaloosa Gas is committed to providing safe, reliable natural gas to the communities we serve,” says Gary Long, Vice President of Marketing for Okaloosa Gas District. “Since natural gas pipelines exist everywhere, you need to be aware of the signs of a leak and how to respond if a leak is suspected — even if natural gas is not a source of energy in your home or business.”

Okaloosa Gas asks you to remember four simple steps — look, listen, smell and leave:
• Look: Near a gas leak, you may notice blowing dirt, bubbling creeks or ponds, dry spots in moist areas or dead plants surrounded by green, live plants.
• Listen: An unusual hissing sound near gas lines or appliances may indicate a natural gas leak.
• Smell: In its raw state, natural gas is odorless. Natural gas utility companies add a harmless substance called mercaptan to create a rotten-egg-like smell. You should take action even if the odor is faint.
• Leave: If you notice any of the above signs, leave the area immediately and contact Okaloosa Gas at 850-729-4700. If the smell of natural gas is particularly strong, also call 9-1-1.

Okaloosa Gas District serves natural gas customers in Okaloosa County, southern Santa Rosa County, portions of northern Escambia County, and southern Walton County. If you have questions about this news story, call 729-4700 or e-mail us.