Insurance programs for gas companies vary in amounts of self-insurance, workmen's compensation, liability, life, health, accident and other coverage. For these reasons, unless prior arrangements are made between companies for emergency assistance, the cost of such assistance should result in large expenditures in the event of a catastrophic accident involving employees or the public. Therefore, it is suggested that each company contact neighboring companies capable of supplying the kind and quality of assistance that might be anticipated in case of an emergency.

The contacting companies should then examine their respective insurance programs and agree on the major provisions for exchanging or providing assistance. The agreement should indemnify the responding company from responsibilities that could result from providing assistance.