Potentially Explosive Gas Leak Contained In Southington: SFD

SOUTHINGTON, CT — A propane leak from a rail car at the AmeriGas facility on Birch Street prompted a hazardous materials response in Southington late Wednesday night, according to the Southington Fire Department.

Firefighters were dispatched to 203 Birch St. at 10:52 p.m. on May 6 after a report of a gas leak inside one of the facility’s buildings, the department said in a news release issued Thursday.

Southington Fire Department Squad 5 was the first unit to arrive and spoke with a worker who reported a propane leak from one of the rail cars inside the facility.

Firefighters confirmed an active leak and observed a visible vapor cloud near the rail car, according to the release.

Squad 5A established command before additional crews arrived. Shift Commander Car 4 later assumed command of the incident.

Truck 1 crews worked to isolate and stop the leak while firefighters continuously monitored atmospheric conditions, the department said.

Engine 12 and Plainville Fire Department Engine 2 staged nearby to provide water supply operations if needed.

The Southington Fire Department notified the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, and DEEP personnel responded to the scene along with an AmeriGas representative.

Fire crews worked with DEEP and AmeriGas personnel to secure the leak and prevent additional hazards.

Responding Southington units included Car 4, Car 3, Squad 5, Truck 1, and Engine 12. Engine 21 and the Cheshire Fire Department provided station coverage during the incident.

No injuries, evacuations, or road closures were reported in the release.