A Message for Pipeline Company Neighbors

Did you know that America’s energy transportation system includes over 2 million miles of pipeline? Pipelines range in size from 60 inches used for the cross-country transportation of energy to the half inch pipeline that delivers natural gas to our homes. These pipelines carry the petroleum we use in our cars and the natural gas we use to cook our meals and heat our homes. In fact, pipelines account for the delivery of about two-thirds of our petroleum products and virtually all of our natural gas.

While most pipelines are buried below the ground, the facilities used to support them operate above ground. Because of their importance to America’s economy and our everyday life, pipelines, and the pumps, compressors, valves and other equipment that makes these systems work, are a potential target for terrorists. Therefore, the security of the nation’s pipeline networks is something we all have a stake in. One of the ways you can help is by participating in the pipeline security “neighborhood watch.”

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has prepared this pamphlet as part of a cooperative effort with your neighboring pipeline company to maintain the security of this vital network. You can play a major role in this effort. If you observe something unusual or out of the ordinary near a pipeline facility, call the pipeline company contact provided in this pamphlet. Of course, in the event of an emergency or immediate threat, you should always call 911.

Be a good neighbor — Report suspicious activity near pipeline facilities.

If you see any suspicious activities report it to your pipeline neighbor.

Be aware of the following:

• People acting suspiciously near pipeline facilities
• People in or loitering near places they do not belong
• A strong odor coming from a building or vehicle
• Fluid leaking from a vehicle, other than the engine or gas tank
• People recording or monitoring activities or showing unusual interest in pipeline facilities
• People taking photos or notes of pipeline facilities

When Reporting Suspicious Activity

Be sure to describe:

• What happened
• How many people were involved
• Where it happened
• When it occurred

When Reporting a Vehicle

Include vehicle features such as:

• Vehicle make, model and color
• License plate number and state
• Bumper stickers
• Body damage

When Reporting a Person

Include personal characteristics like:

• Age
• Height/weight
• Facial features
• Gender
• Build
• Clothing
• Hair color/length
• Race
• Tattoos

U.S. Department of Homeland Security Transportation Security Administration Pipeline Security Division TSA-28
601 South 12th Street
Arlington, Virginia 22202-4220

www.tsa.gov