Earthquake Could Cause Gas Leaks

August 23, 2011 | 4:49 PM

The 5.9 earthquake centered near Richmond, Va., which struck the east coast this afternoon, could have damaged natural gas lines. Both the city of Philadelphia, and the state of Pennsylvania have issued warnings to residents to call 911 if they smell natural gas. Here’s more information from the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission:

HARRISBURG – Following the earthquake felt throughout the Commonwealth, the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today reminded residents that if they smell or hear natural gas leaking, they should call 911.
The PUC also is working with natural gas utilities throughout the state to monitor the safety of the system. The state’s natural gas utilities are checking their systems for leaks by using specialized equipment to conduct leak surveys while monitoring pressure changes on the system.
An additive makes natural gas smell like rotten eggs. Residents are reminded if they smell natural gas or hear a hissing or blowing sounds, they should:

EVACUATE THE HOUSE IMMEDIATELY.

DO NOT TURN YOUR LIGHTS ON OR OFF.

DO NOT CALL FROM YOUR HOME TELEPHONE LAND LINE OR FROM YOUR CELL PHONE WHILE STILL IN YOUR HOME.

ONCE YOU ARE A SAFE DISTANCE AWAY FROM THE ODOR, CALL 911.