Manhattan, IL – In the wake of a ruptured pipeline incident on the morning of Tuesday, at the intersection of Bruns and Gougar Road, Manhattan Fire Protection District officials are issuing urgent advisories for residents to close windows and implement safety measures at home.
The leak, detected after a natural gas odor report was received around 8:24 AM, prompted immediate responses from both the Manhattan Fire units and Peoples Gas. The emergency teams swiftly secured the scene, enforcing a safety perimeter of one mile around the leakage site to protect the community. Special populations, particularly in schools and childcare centers, were alerted about the gas leak. These institutions have been actively monitoring air quality, ensuring the safety of indoor activities while suspending outdoor ones and advising the shutdown of ventilation systems.
Peoples Gas has reportedly controlled the leak, focusing on the removal of the mercaptan component, which is responsible for the strong gas smell. Although the situation is under control, the community is advised to remain indoors with windows closed and to deactivate home ventilation systems until the odor is fully cleared. Updates will be provided as the clean-up progresses.
This incident has seen the involvement of the MABAS 19 Hazmat Team and support from the Will County Emergency Management Agency, ensuring a thorough and coordinated response to ensure public safety.
