At 3:18 p.m. on March 17, Clarkdale Fire District was dispatched to gas line break off State Route 89A. A plumber was digging to repair a leaking water line and inadvertently hit the natural gas pipeline in the process. Upon Clarkdale Fire Department arrival, UniSource Energy Services employees were already on-scene digging up the gas line in order to secure it.
Large roots had grown around the line, adding to the difficulty of the effort. The Clarkdale Fire District personnel stood ready with a charged hose line. Unisource crews used multiple SCBA tanks in the process of clamping the lines, which was completed at 4:55 p.m. Mutual aid was received from Verde Valley Ambulance Company which provided rehab services and Cottonwood Fire and Medical Department which provided a support unit to refill SCBA tanks.
The entire operation went smoothly with no injuries. UniSource Energy Services and Clarkdale Fire District train together on a regular basis, so if this type of event occurs, it is dealt with safely and effectively. UniSource Energy crews secured the leak and made permanent repairs that evening. The business encourages residents to be prepared to recognize the signs of a leak and react appropriately if one should occur. Since natural gas is lighter than air, any underground leak can pose a danger at ground level.
Using your senses of sight, smell and sound will help you recognize a leak:
- Sight – A dense fog, mist, or white cloud. Also, look for discolored vegetation, bubbling water or dust that is being blown away from a spot on the ground.
- Smell – A distinctive odor is added to natural gas to help identify leaks.
- Sound – A hissing, whistling or roaring noise can identify a potential leak.
Be careful not to touch, breathe or make contact with leaking gas. Do not light a match, turn light switches on or off, use a telephone or do anything that creates a spark near a potential gas leak.
Also, do not attempt to operate any valves yourself. Call 911.
