HANFORD, CA — Emergency responders blocked off a two-block section of downtown Hanford following a confirmed gas leak in the 500 block of Redington Street. The incident, which was reported on the night of Jan. 5, prompted a swift response from local police and fire crews.
The Hanford fire and police departments sent eight police units and three fire crews to the scene. To keep the community safe, officials closed the streets around Redington and Irwin while they worked on the leak.
Hanford Fire Chief Dan Perkins said the situation required extra caution because the gas had been "scrubbed" by underground soil. This filtering process removed the distinct warning odor usually added to natural gas, making it difficult for crews to detect the leak by smell. Chief Perkins also noted that the soil caused the gas to clear away more slowly than usual.
According to Chief Perkins, Southern California Gas crews were already nearby repairing other leaks in the area at the time. A city building inspector also confirmed the leak on Redington Street after speaking with the utility company.
Police issued a safety alert during the incident, warning residents and drivers to avoid the downtown area. Officials reopened the area to the public about 45 minutes after the first alert was sent out. Chief Perkins said firefighters checked the site and made the area safe. No injuries were reported.
While the situation ended safely, fire officials are asking the community to remain alert. Residents are encouraged to report any suspected gas smells or potential leaks to both the Hanford Fire Department and Southern California Gas.
