SALT LAKE CITY, Utah, Aug. 3, 2019 (Gephardt Daily) — Firefighters and hazmat crews thanked residents of a large apartment complex in downtown Salt Lake City for their patience, after the residents were forced to evacuate for a few hours overnight.
A natural gas leak at the 4th West apartment complex, 255 N. 400 West, was reported shortly before 9:30 p.m. Friday.
Upon arrival, crews began evacuating the 496-unit complex, and residents were allowed to shelter at West High School, directly west of the complex.
Some lingered across the street, sitting on the curb, the sidewalk, or on lawn chairs along with others who showed up to see what the excitement was about.
Firefighters were taking no chances as they arrived on scene and started the evacuation process. They could be heard on the scanner, cautioning that “any static will create a spark,” emphasizing the need to proceed carefully as the percentage of natural gas in the air was being monitored and residents headed outside to safety.
Around 2 a.m. Saturday, Salt Lake City Fire Department gave the all-clear. Dominion Energy had turned off the gas to the entire complex as soon as possible after being notified of the leak. The complex had been ventilated until the air was safe to breathe again.
SLCFD tweeted, “Safe levels have been achieved and all occupants can return to their homes. Gas will be turned on tomorrow morning with a coordinated effort between agencies and building management. Shout out to all occupants for your patience throughout.”
