Natural Gas (i. Understanding Natural Gas, ii. Response to Natural Gas Fires and Emergencies)

Natural gas emergencies are very dangerous and are some of the most common hazardous emergencies we respond to. Yet many responders remain static in their understanding of the hazards and response techniques associated with this type of emergency. Emergency response is by nature a dynamic process. It is necessary to expand our approach and communicate more with gas companies to learn about the hazards and resources they provide. This coordination should create a more dynamic response for the safety of responders and citizens. Everyone responding to natural gas emergencies; industry, responders and local officials are dedicated to protecting life and property. Unfortunately, emergencies do occur.

This training program is designed to provide participants with a basic understanding of Natural Gas physical and chemical properties, natural gas pipeline facilities and operations, natural gas transmission and distribution systems and indicators of a natural gas fires and emergencies.

This training program is designed to help responders understand and respond to those gas emergencies more effectively and safely.

The information included in this training program are critical information in sizing up the problem, assessing the behaviour of each, estimating future outcomes, and developing a sound incident action plan. Topics include an overview of the physical and chemical properties of natural gas, natural gas facilities and operations, and clues and indicators of a leaking natural gas pipeline.

Natural Gas is one of the principal sources of energy for many of our day-to-day needs and activities. This section provides an overview of some of the characteristics of this vital resource.

Natural gas is a vital component of the world’s supply of energy. It is one of the cleanest, safest, and most useful of all energy sources. Despite its importance, however, there are many misconceptions about natural gas. For instance, the word ‘gas’ itself has a variety of different uses, and meanings. When we fuel our car, we put ‘gas’ in it. However, the gasoline that goes into your vehicle, while a fossil fuel itself, is very different from natural gas. The ‘gas’ in the common barbecue is actually propane, which, while closely associated and commonly found in natural gas, is not really natural gas itself. While commonly grouped in with other fossil fuels and sources of energy, there are many characteristics of natural gas that make it unique. Below is a bit of background information about natural gas, what it is exactly, how it is formed, and where it is found in nature.

Natural gas, in itself, might be considered an uninteresting gas it is colourless, shapeless, and odourless in its pure form. Quite uninteresting except that natural gas is combustible, and when burned it gives off a great deal of energy with fewer emissions than many other sources. Compared to other fossil fuels, natural gas is cleaner burning and emits lower levels of potentially harmful byproducts into the air. We require an ever-increasing supply of energy to heat our homes, cook our food, and generate our electricity. It is this need for energy that has elevated natural gas to such a level of importance in our society, and in our lives.