Monday, June 2, 2014
Lightning Strike Believed To Be Cause Of Numerous Gas Leak Calls
A lightning strike is believed to have resulted in a large number of calls from natural gas customers during the weekend who reported gas leaks.
Officials with Lawrenceburg Utility Systems indicate that utility workers and fire crews were called out twenty-eight times during the weekend by residents and business employees who detected a strong odor of natural gas.
Investigation revealed that a malfunction had allowed an exorbitant amount of odorant to be added to the gas supply.
Since natural gas is odorless and colorless an odor must be added for safety purposes to allow individuals to detect any dangerous leaks.
While the utility system routinely adds between 7 and 10 pounds of odorant per month, officials said that fifty-two pounds of the substance were added during the weekend alone. This resulted in a much stronger odor, leading customers to fear a leak.
Officials believe that the malfunction in the regulation system was the result of a lightning strike during storm Friday evening.
Although the problem created a cause for concern for many, officials said that no actual danger existed. All of the gas meters were replaced as a precautionary measure and repairs made to the system.
While the situation has been rectified, they said that some individuals may still notice a strong odor as the substance works through the system.
Anyone who notices a strong gas odor should always report it to ensure there is no leak. You can report a possible leak by calling 911, or contacting the utility systems at 931-762-7161.
