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Reporting an emergency
To report a pipeline emergency, call 1-800-537-5200
Recognizing a pipeline leak
Petroleum pipelines carry both gaseous and liquid materials that can burn or explode if subjected to an ignition source. Many liquids form gaseous vapor clouds when released into the air. Some pipelines contain colorless and odorless products. Some pipeline gases are lighter than air and will rise. Others are heavier than air and will stay near the ground and collect in low spots. Any pipeline leak can be potentially dangerous.
Look for pipeline markers
Markers that indicate the location of pipelines may include warning signs, aerial patrol markers, casing vents and painted metal, wooden or plastic posts.
By sight
- Pool of liquid on the ground near a pipeline
- Frozen ground near the pipeline
- Water bubbling or being blown into the air
- Discolored or abnormally dry soil
- Rainbow sheen on water surfaces
- Fire or explosion near the pipeline
- Dense white cloud or fog over a pipeline
- Discolored vegetation surrounding the pipeline
By sound
- Unusual noise coming from the pipeline, like a hissing or roaring sound
By smell
- Unusual petroleum, chemical, or "rotten egg" smell
What to do if a leak occurs
- Immediately and safely leave the area
- Do not touch, breathe, or make contact with leaking liquid
- Do not light a match, start an engine, use a cell phone, telephone, light switch, or anything that may create a spark
- Do not drive into a leak or vapor cloud area
- From a safe location, call 911 or your local emergency response number and ExxonMobil Pipeline Company's emergency number, 1-800-537-5200
How we keep our pipelines safe
To ensure that our pipelines are well-maintained and operated safely, we developed a comprehensive Integrity Management Program that helps us manage our facilities and pipelines safely, reliably and with environmental care. Our pipelines are regularly tested and maintained using cleaning devices, diagnostic tools and cathodic protection to detect corrosion.
We regularly patrol our pipeline routes on the ground and in the air and closely monitor our operations through a 24-hour control center. Sophisticated computers, alarms and other technologies are used to control and monitor pipeline systems and are designed to immediately implement protective measures should a leak be detected.
In addition to our prevention efforts, ExxonMobil Pipeline Company maintains a strong capability to respond if an incident involving one of our pipelines occurs. We encourage and appreciate public participation in preventing pipeline accidents through early recognition and reporting of pipeline leaks.
