Natural Gas Leak Causes Evacuation of 8 Homes in Milwaukie Neighborhood

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On the night of January 24th, 2012 in Milwaukie at 9:08pm, Clackamas Fire crews were called to 10080 SE 54th ct. to investigate a strong smell of natural gas. The first crew that arrived did find a strong smell of gas in the neighborhood across the street from Seth Lewelling Elementary School located on Logus rd. A woman had also reported that she came home and drove her car into her garage and smelled a very strong smell of rotten eggs. She quickly came outside and waited for responders to arrive. Several neighbors also reported the strong smell.

NW Natural Gas was working in the area and responded to the scene. Using their air monitors they found explosive levels of natural gas inside the home of the woman who called 911. High gas levels were also found in the home next door. Immediately fire crews began evacuating neighbors. A total of 8 homes and 20 people were evacuated. These neighbors that were evacuated stayed inside a warm Tri-Met bus while NW Natural Gas crews went to work locating the leak. PGE also responded and were asked to shut the power to these homes as a precaution.

By 11:07pm NW Natural Gas crews were able to find the problem and stop the leak. It took several more minutes for the gas to dissipate enough so that crews could enter the home to begin ventilation. All neighbors were let back into there home a short time later.

Always remember to immediately get outside of your home and then call 911 if you smell natural gas or that rotten egg smell. Never try to locate the leak yourself.



Author:Clackamas Fire District #1 Press Release