3 Natural gas leaks are rare. But they can happen. Your senses will alert you if a leak occurs. SENSIBLE WORDS About Natural Gas Sight Escaping gas affects the nutrients in soil, so discolored soil or dead vegetation near a pipeline may indicate a leak. Dirt or water blowing up from the ground may indicate a natural gas leak. Sound Natural gas leaks may make a hissing or a high-pitched whistling noise. Noises will vary based on the line pressure. Smell A strong odor of natural gas can indicate unburned fuel in the air. Because the gas is odorless, a sulfur based odorant is added to give it a rotten-egg smell that warns of its presence. Be alert for this odorant or any petroleum smell. If you believe a natural gas leak is occurring, leave the area immediately and notify Peoples by calling 1.800.400.4271 or dial 9-1-1. If you plan excavation work, remember to contact the Pennsylvania One Call System at least three business days before digging to have our facilities located. Dial 811. Call before you dig-it's the law. > PEOPLES An Essential Utilities Company 3 Natural gas leaks are rare . But they can happen . Your senses will alert you if a leak occurs . SENSIBLE WORDS About Natural Gas Sight Escaping gas affects the nutrients in soil , so discolored soil or dead vegetation near a pipeline may indicate a leak . Dirt or water blowing up from the ground may indicate a natural gas leak . Sound Natural gas leaks may make a hissing or a high - pitched whistling noise . Noises will vary based on the line pressure . Smell A strong odor of natural gas can indicate unburned fuel in the air . Because the gas is odorless , a sulfur based odorant is added to give it a rotten - egg smell that warns of its presence . Be alert for this odorant or any petroleum smell . If you believe a natural gas leak is occurring , leave the area immediately and notify Peoples by calling 1.800.400.4271 or dial 9-1-1 . If you plan excavation work , remember to contact the Pennsylvania One Call System at least three business days before digging to have our facilities located . Dial 811 . Call before you dig - it's the law . > PEOPLES An Essential Utilities Company