| A gas pipeline was accidentally struck by a contract work crew in the 1400 block of Whitfield Blvd. in the North Whitfield neighborhood of Spring Township on Tuesday morning September 30. Rescue Engine 85 was already on a medical call, but in keeping with our high confidence mutual aid system, Wyomissing Ladder 79 and Western Berks Fire Ladder 18 were already enroute and automatically handled it with TSFR Chief 85.
Chief 85 arrived and met with contractors attempting to expose a 1-inch service line that was struck, with free-flowing gas. There was an odor of natural gas in the air, and readings at the excavation hole. L18 and L79 were assigned to access nearby residences to complete atmospheric monitoring and reported no odors or readings. As such residents were advised to shelter in place.
UGI arrived on scene and worked with contractor personnel to isolate the leak. Command reported the leak was secured and placed the incident under control. UGI supervisors released the fire service and advised that no additional atmospheric monitoring was required. Accordingly, the assignment was returned, and command terminated with no further service rendered. |
