Noise, flares, and odors are part of the work, NIPSCO explains
information provided by NIPSCO and the Village of Lansing
LANSING, Ill. (August 7, 2018) – A nine-day project that is taking place yesterday and today, and again from Saturday, August 11, through Friday, August 17, may produce odors of gas, a 30-foot flare, and distinguishable noises. NIPSCO and contracted crews will be installing a new gas system at 501 Fisher Street in Munster Indiana. The affected area includes parts of Lansing close to the Indiana border. Though the effects are somewhat dramatic, they are the natural outcome of what is a routine procedure.
Sources from NIPSCO say the major work is scheduled to be done on August 11 and 15. Although NIPSCO now uses a new muffler to minimize noise from the flares, residents within a one-mile radius may still hear noise on those two dates in particular. In addition, an odor may also be detected.
The project is scheduled to run intermittently from 7:00am–7:00pm, weather permitting. Customers are not expected to experience any interruptions to their existing natural gas service.
“Please exercise caution as you travel near any construction zone to ensure personal safety and the safety of construction crews working on this project,” says NIPSCO.
For public 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.
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 like rotten eggs.
If you suspect a leak outside—
- Turn off and abandon any motorized equipment you might be using
- Leave the area quickly
- Warn others to stay away from the area
- Call 1-800-4-NIPSCO (1-800-464-7726) to report the suspected leak
- 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.
