A damaged gas line ignited in downtown Redlands Tuesday as crews worked to repair the ruptured line, causing minor damage to a piece of excavation equipment. No structures were damaged and no injuries were reported.
The Redlands Fire Department responded to the leak near the intersection of Third Street and Shopper’s Lane at about 9:40 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 6.
Upon arrival, firefighters found a ruptured gas line that had been struck by a contractor working in the area. Southern California Gas Company arrived shortly before the Fire Department and began assessing the situation. Firefighters remained on scene to assist the Gas Company and to provide for public safety.
At about 1:15 p.m., as Gas Company crews attempted to clamp the ruptured line, the gas ignited. Additional fire crews were called to the scene to assist in structure protection and suppression efforts. Shortly after 2 p.m., Gas Company crews were able to control the leak by placing a clamp on the line near Stuart Avenue.
An excavator sustained minor damage as a result of the fire.
Fire crews remained on scene for an additional 30 minutes to ensure all residual gas was evacuated from the line. Southern California Gas Company crews remain on scene to repair the damaged line.
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