LG&E performs regular leak surveys of its gas distribution system and a distinctive odor is added to the natural gas to aid in identifying gas leaks. Gas odor levels are monitored on a regular basis to ensure adequate levels of the odorant are present in the gas. Although LG&E adds the odorant to natural gas to aid in the detection of leaks, you should not rely solely on your sense of smell to determine if there is a gas leak. Some persons may not be able to smell the odor because they have a diminished sense of smell or because the odor is being masked by other odors in the area. In addition, there may be rare conditions, such as odor fade (loss of odorant) which may occur and cause the odor to diminish so that it is not detectable.

Outdoors

Our underground pipelines are the safest, most-efficient way to deliver natural gas to your home. We mark the larger, natural gas transmission lines across the state with signs so you know where the underground lines are. Our lines are constantly monitored and inspected so we can locate and fix potential problems before they occur.

If you live, work or play near a natural gas pipeline, the following signs may help you detect a leak on or near the pipeline right-of-way:

• You may HEAR A blowing or hissing sound.
• You may SEE dust blowing from a hole in the ground, continuous bubbling in one spot in wet or flooded areas, dead vegetation, abnormally dry or hardened soil or fire apparently coming from the ground or burning above the ground.
• You may SMELL a gaseous or hydrocarbon odor (similar to sulfur or rotten eggs).

If you suspect a gas leak outdoors:

1. Shut down and abandon any equipment being used in or near the area.
2. Avoid open flame or other sources of ignition. Do not start any motor vehicles or electrical equipment.
3. Evacuate the area and prevent unsuspecting people from entering.
4. Notify us at 1-502-589-5511 (1-800-331-7370) immediately so the leak can be verified and necessary corrective action can take place.
5. Get help from local law enforcement officials to isolate the area.
6. Do not attempt to extinguish a natural gas fire. Request the local fire department to protect adjacent property.
7. Do not attempt to operate any pipeline valves.

Indoors

The following signs may help you detect a leak inside a building:

• You may SMELL a gaseous or hydrocarbon odor (similar to sulfur or rotten eggs). A faint odor of natural gas may mean that a pilot light has gone out on an appliance and should be re-lit or that there is some other leak or problem present. Open the doors and windows for ventilation. Don't try to re-light a gas furnace, water heater or range until you are sure there is no natural gas left inside the building.
• You or someone in the building may experience dizziness, headache, nausea, fatigue or flu-like symptoms. This could be a sign that a natural gas leak or release of carbon monoxide has occurred, which may be the result of an improperly adjusted natural gas appliance inside your home or workplace.

If you suspect a natural gas leak, DO NOT use a telephone or flashlight, switch a light on or off, light a match or create any other ignition source. Leaking natural gas can ignite, so you should immediately leave the house and go to a safe area where there is no indication of a natural gas leak. This may be a neighbor's house. Call us at 1-502-589-5511 (outside Louisville 1-800-331-7370). You should do the same thing if you suspect carbon monoxide is present in the home. Carbon monoxide detectors can be purchased from home improvement stores or from various online sources.