Heavy snows causing gas leak issues—so be aware as snow keeps falling

Keeping the firefighters busy

by Mark Reaman

One serious ramification of recent heavy snowstorms in the valley is its impact on things such as outdoor gas lines. The Crested Butte Fire Protection District has responded to about a dozen gas-related calls since the first of the year. On Tuesday, the entire Alpineer building near the Four-way Stop in Crested Butte was evacuated after a gas line fractured and a leak was reported. That was just one of four gas calls the CBFPD answered on Tuesday alone.

“We have been busy with such calls that vary from a smell of gas to meters being buried and external gas lines being damaged,” explained Crested Butte Fire Protection District fire inspector Scott Wimmer. “The external gas lines are the most vulnerable due to roof shoveling operations being dumped onto the meters and gas lines. Another cause is the extreme plowing operations needed in this storm cycle. The snow piles up in front of the meters and gas lines and can move them.”

As a result, the CBFPD reminds citizens of the need to ensure that driveways and access points to homes and businesses are kept clear of snow. Businesses also need to be aware that their emergency exits may also be blocked and need to be cleared.

“If you are located in a subdivision with a dry hydrant, be sure the Fire Department Connection is also clear of snow and readily accessible for Fire District responders,” said Wimmer. “When shoveling roofs and areas around your home, make sure not to bury the gas meter and propane pressure relief valves. In addition, be sure to shovel out the intake and exhaust vents to all gas fired appliances.”

Wimmer also gave a shout-out to the volunteers who leave their jobs and families to respond to such calls.

If you have any questions, please call the offices of the Crested Butte Fire Protection District.