The TransCanada GTN System takes every precaution to ensure the safe operation of its interstate pipeline system. Part of that effort involves reminding the public of its safety role.

The GTN System has important reasons -- including public safety and assured supply to customers -- for controlling use of the pipeline right of way.

If you are planning to use a GTN System pipeline right of way for any purpose other than acceptable landscaping, please call us at
(800) 447-8066 (toll free, 24 hours a day).

If you are planning to dig, be sure to call the one-call center in your area to be alerted to all utility rights of way.

The greatest danger to any pipeline is damage by third parties. Perhaps the biggest safety concern is that a third party will dig too deeply or in the wrong place and inadvertently damage the line.

Damage to a pipeline caused by land leveling, ditching, blasting, deep plowing or other excavation work can lead to:

• Injuries or fatalities to equipment operators and other in the vicinity.
• Pipeline rupture and potential for an explosion or fire.
• Service interruption.
• Claims for damages.

But third-party damage is easily preventable. A simple call can help avoid potentially dangerous accidents.

Decades of pipeline operation have shown that the best way to avoid third-party damage to pipelines is for the pipeline to mark the location of its underground lines whenever a builder or developer is planning a project near the right of way.

If you plan to perform work in or near the GTN System's right of way, a call to (800) 447-8066 (toll free, 24 hours a day) will get results. A company representative will contact you personally to review your situation and help resolve any potential land-use conflicts on the right of way. If you are planning to dig, be sure to call the one-call center in your area to be alerted to all utility rights of way.

Please call (800) 447-8066 immediately if you notice any of the following along the GTN System's pipeline right of way:

• Construction or suspicious-looking activity.
• Sulfurous odor.
• Hissing or whooshing sound.
• Unusual blowing of dust.
• Dying plants amid healthy ones.
• Persistent bubbles in streams, ponds or wet areas.
• Fire or explosions near the pipeline.