True or False: A pipe that has been leaking for a long time can dry out the surrounding soil, increasing the risk of static ignition.

The statement is accurate because a leaking pipe can indeed lead to the drying out of the surrounding soil over time. When water continuously leaks from a pipe, it saturates the soil initially, but as the leaking continues without repair, the water can eventually be depleted from the soil in that area. This drying process can create a condition where the soil becomes more prone to static electricity, particularly in environments where other factors, such as dry weather or the presence of certain materials that generate static may be present.

Static ignition risk increases in dry soil conditions because static discharges can occur when materials in dry environments come into contact, especially if there is a lack of moisture to dissipate electrical charges. Therefore, when soil becomes dry due to prolonged leakage, it can potentially heighten the risk of situations where static electricity might lead to ignition, particularly in areas where flammable materials could be present.

This understanding is critical for evaluating safety risks in situations involving leaking pipes, as it underlines the importance of prompt repairs not only for infrastructure integrity but also for fire safety.