In recognition of Emergency Preparedness Week from May 2–8, 2021, Trans Mountain is sharing what you need to know in the unlikely event of an emergency.
Trans Mountain is prepared to respond immediately with detailed response procedures, specialized equipment, and trained personnel in the unlikely event of an emergency. However, it is also important to know how to identify a pipeline emergency and what to do.
Pipeline Emergency Warning Signs
The common signs of a pipeline release include:
- A chemical or petroleum odour
- A sulphur or rotten egg smell
- Dead or discoloured vegetation
- A pool of liquid near the right-of-way
- Rainbow sheen on water
- Unusual noises such as roaring or hissing
What to do in an Emergency
If you see any of the warning signs above, follow these guidelines:
- Turn off vehicle engines
- Leave the area immediately, on foot and upwind
- Warn others to avoid the area
- Eliminate ignition sources, including keyless door entry, cell phones or flashlights
- Once you are well away from the area, call 911
- Notify Trans Mountain using the 24-Hour Emergency Notification Line: 1.888.876.6711
- Follow the instructions of local emergency services officials
Listen to Emergency Services Officials
In the event of an emergency, local emergency services officials are responsible for the protection of the public and it is important to follow their direction. Trans Mountain will support local authorities to ensure appropriate emergency communications and public protection measures are taken.
Shelter-in-Place
Emergency services officials may decide to take the safety measure of asking you to Shelter-in-Place. This means staying inside and protecting yourself from the outside air and potential exposure to hazards during evacuation. If you have been instructed to Shelter-in-Place, follow these guidelines:
- Remain indoors or proceed to the nearest safe building if you are outside
- Close all doors and windows
- Shut down HVAC systems and fans
- Seal gaps and vents if possible
- Turn off all sources of ignition
- Stay where you are until you are given instructions or an all clear by emergency services officials or first responders
Evacuation of Area
If it is safe to leave the affected area, or you are advised to evacuate the area, follow the designated evacuation route, or the directions of emergency service officials or first responders. Evacuate to the designated meeting point of reception area, check-in with the appropriate staff, and remain there until officials have given the all clear.
Public Protection
In the unlikely event of a pipeline emergency, your safety is our number one priority, and Trans Mountain is committed to ensuring public protection measures are implemented and timely communications are delivered to those affected.
You can find more detailed information about our Emergency Management Program here.