Firefighters Respond to Gas Leak in DC

By David M. Schloss
Attorney

Emergency responders evacuated a building located near a reported natural gas leak earlier this month in Northwest DC. In a report at nbcwashington.com, the gas leak was on Massachusetts Avenue in the 2100 block. Washington, D.C. firefighters, and HazMat responders searched the area for the leak.

According to a spokesperson for the Washington, D.C. Firefighters Association, air-monitoring systems detected elevated gas readings in the area. Workers from Washington Gas were able to stop the leak, but authorities closed nearby streets as a precaution.

Although natural gas is non-toxic, colorless, and odorless, it is a highly combustible fuel. If ignited, a natural gas leak can lead to a deadly explosion. To aid detection, gas companies odorize natural gas with a chemical to give it an unpleasant odor. A damaged utility pipe can leak gas into a home, but the odor should make it easy to smell.

If you suspect a natural gas leak in or around your home, evacuate the area immediately. Move away from the suspected source and call 9-1-1. If natural gas heats your home, make sure the heating system is in good condition as winter approaches.

Have you ever come home to a gas leak? Get in touch with our team today.

Koonz, McKenney, Johnson & DePaolis L.L.P.

Maryland, Washington, D.C., and Virginia Injury Attorneys

Approved by attorney David Schloss

About the Author
David M. Schloss is an injury attorney and partner in the law firm of Koonz McKenney Johnson & DePaolis LLP. He joined the law firm in 1987 and has earned a reputation as one of the leading personal injury and workers’ compensation attorneys in the District of Columbia.