NIPSCO will complete the final phase of natural gas system upgrade in Wheatfield as part of the company’s ongoing modernization plan to upgrade their natural gas infrastructure system. The upgrade has included adding a new natural gas regulating station to ensure safe and reliable natural gas service to customers in the Demotte and Wheatfield area. Monday, October 22 through Monday, October 29 NIPSCO and their contracted crews from NPL, TDW, and Mulcare will be performing a routine procedure which will tie two main natural gas pipelines together at the corner of 1300 N and 50 W and the corner of SR10 and 200 W. During this routine procedure, residents and businesses within a one mile radius of the tie-in locations may observe a distinguished audible noise and natural gas odors in the air. The project is scheduled for one week, intermittently, from 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. CDT, weather permitting. During construction hours, SR 10 will be open to one lane for 200 feet near the cross road of 200 West. Crews may have to work into the later evening hours. Signs will be posted prior to lane closures and flaggers will be on site directing traffic during construction hours. Customers are not expected to experience any interruptions to their natural gas service. The public is encouraged to exercise caution when traveling near any construction zone to ensure personal safety and the safety of construction crews working on this project. NIPSCO appreciates the patience of the community during this important infrastructure modernization project and will continue to work with Jasper County and Wheatfield officials to minimize customer impacts. For your safety, NIPSCO encourages anyone who may detect natural gas odors, regardless of whether or not they suspect it’s related to this project, to call 1-800-4-NIPSCO (1-800-464-7726). A service technician will be sent to check the safety of the area. For more information on NIPSCO’s modernization plan please visit NIPSCO.com/future.
Detecting a Gas Leak:
Since natural gas is colorless and odorless, NIPSCO adds a harmless, non-toxic chemical that makes it easier to detect a gas leak before it can create a hazardous situation. The chemical, called mercaptan, smells a lot like rotten eggs.
When You Smell Gas Outside:
If you suspect a leak outside, NIPSCO offers the following safety reminders:
· Turn off and abandon any motorized equipment you might be using
· Leave the area quickly and warn others to stay away from the area Remain outside until NIPSCO can send someone to check on the source of the odor An odor of gas outside your home should be reported just as you would report an inside odor. Gas leaks from service lines could migrate into your home through walls or drain lines.
For more safety related information, visit NIPSCO.com/StaySafe.