Gas Distribution

The City of Vicksburg purchase the original gas system in 1941. At the time, methane gas was generated and sold to customers. Today natural gas is sold according to market value for residential and industrial customers to use for heating, cooking and various manufacturing processes. Currently the system consists of 166 miles of main (lines) that supply gas to 9,513 service connections. Approximately 8,000 customers are served by the system.
A gas distribution system is a complex network of interconnected mains fed by regulators and having valves throughout for the purpose of shutting off or diverting the flow of gas. Pressure in the mains may vary from less than one pound to one hundred pounds. Only properly authorized and trained personnel can operate these valves and only then after proper evaluation of how any change might effect the entire system. Special care is taken to avoid creation of a hazardous situation and to prevent escalation of an existing problem should one arise.

Do you know the basics?

• Natural gas is harmful to breathe because it contains no oxygen.
• Pure natural gas is colorless and odorless. A chemical is added to give it a distinctive odor.
• Any smell of gas should be reported by calling the emergency phone number 601-636-1096.

What you should do if you have an emergency.

• Call our emergency phone number (601) 636-1096 to report the problem.
• If you have called from the area of the odor, then lay the phone down, do not hang it up.
• It may be an ignition source.
• Never call from the area where you smelled the odor.
• Do not turn any switches on/off; they may be an ignition source.
• Do not light matches or use lighters.
• Go to a safe distance away from the area, watch for traffic looking both ways while evacuating the area.
• Be available to speak with the Service technician upon his/her arrival.
• If you are unable to leave your home, please inform the Dispatcher, they can send other emergency personnel to aide in your evacuation.

Necessary personnel will be dispatched to the location of the reported leak to evaluate the situation and make the necessary repairs. Never attempt to tamper with a meter that is tagged and has been turned off by the department. Severe damage can occur!