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Utility Safety

Natural Gas Leak/Odor

You may not realize this, but natural gas by itself is completely odorless. As a safety feature, a harmless chemical is added to the natural gas that gives it a distinctive odor. This odor, similar to rotten eggs, may smell bad, but it allows you to detect the presence of even a small amount of natural gas. If you smell natural gas:

1. Investigate and attempt to find the source. It may simply be an extinguished pilot light, a partially opened burner, or something else that is easily and safely corrected.
2. If you cannot locate the source of the odor or if the odor persists - call Gallatin Public Utilities at (615) 451-5922 for assistance (Call the Gallatin Fire Department at (615) 452-5969 for after hours emergencies).
3. If you should smell a strong odor of natural gas or if you should hear natural gas leaking - leave the premises immediately. Do not switch anything off or on. Go to the nearest telephone outside the building and call Gallatin Public Utilities at (615) 451-5922 or the Gallatin Fire Department at (615) 452-2771 or dial 911.

Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide is often referred to as the "Silent Killer", and for good reason. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas; which can be extremely dangerous even at low concentrations. Natural gas, like any other fuel, can produce carbon monoxide as it burns. This can be caused by a lack of air, improperly working appliances, or poor flue conditions. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include: headache, fatigue, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and the ability to think clearly. If you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning, move the victim to a well ventilated area and seek medical assistance immediately, then call Gallatin Public Utilities at (615) 451-5922 for a carbon monoxide inspection (Call the Gallatin Fire Department at (615) 452-5969 for after hours emergencies). Make sure that all natural gas appliances are vented outside and keep chimneys and flues clear of debris or obstructions.

Tennessee-One Call

"Call before you dig" - That's the motto of the Tennessee One Call System. Whether you are building an addition, laying a patio, or just planting a garden, call before you dig. Gallatin has a complex network of lines, pipes, and cables buried underground. It's important for you to know where these lines and pipes are located. That's why the Gallatin Public Utilities Department works closely with Tennessee One Call. Tennessee law requires you to call Tennessee One Call at least three (3) business days before you dig. When you call, someone will locate and mark the underground utilities in the area that you wish to excavate. Digging without this information could not only be dangerous, but costly, if you damage underground utilities. So the next time you plan to dig , do it safely by calling TENNESSEE ONE CALL @ 1-800-351-1111.
TN One Call
Last Revised: Tuesday, March 13, 2007 @ 10:50 AM