Natural gas is a safe, clean, and affordable source of energy in our community, but like any fuel source, you have to use it carefully.  KUB conducts proactive safety surveys to monitor, operate, and maintain its natural gas distribution system. This information is used to make repairs and determine replacement programs. But natural gas leaks do happen, and they are most common on customer owned fuel lines and appliances, so it is important that you’re familiar with key natural gas safety procedures:

• Remember the three "R"s: Recognize. React. KUB Responds
  • Recognize. You can recognize a natural gas leak by sound when the gas makes a hissing sound as it leaves the pipe. You might also see brown or dead vegetation (without obvious explanation) in an area where a natural gas pipeline is buried. Or, you might smell the natural gas, which is the most common way a natural gas leak is detected. KUB adds a harmless chemical called mercaptan to its natural gas supply so it smells similar to rotten eggs.
  • React. You should react by immediately leaving the area. Go to a location where you can no longer smell or hear the natural gas leak. Alert those in the area as you go, and take them with you as you leave. Don’t stop to turn off lights or do anything that could cause a spark. Simply leave.
  • KUB Responds. When you have reacted and reached your safe area, call KUB at 865-524-2911. KUB will respond quickly and for free to investigate the natural gas leak and provide you with further guidance.

How to Report a Natural Gas Leak

If you need to report natural gas service trouble, please do not email KUB. Instead, call 865-524-2911 to help ensure a rapid response. [Note: If you suspect a gas leak inside your home, leave immediately and call KUB from another location.]

Your personal safety is top priority. If you suspect a natural gas leak (inside or outside), please follow the safety steps below:

DO

• Leave the area (inside or outside) immediately, and tell others to leave, too.
• Go to a safe location away from any signs of a leak.
• Call KUB at 865-524-2911 right away. We will send a trained technician to perform a free natural gas leak inspection.

DON'T

Don't do any of the following things that could cause a spark, igniting the gas:

• Don't switch lights or appliances on or off.
• Don't use any telephone—including cordless or cellular phones.
• Don't use any electrical devices, including appliances, doorbells, and garage door openers.
• Don't smoke or use matches or lighters.
• Don't start or stop a nearby vehicle or machinery.
• Don't attempt to turn natural gas valves on or off.
• Don't re-enter the building or return to the area until KUB tells you it is safe to do so. Remember: Your personal safety is top priority.