Another gas leak has Allentown residents fearful after last week’s deadly explosion.
Utility crews responding to reports of a gas odor along north 13th Street in Allentown Thursday accidentally caused a gas leak during their inspection, forcing resident Elizabeth Velasquez out of her home.
“I was just nervous and concerned about my kids and hoping that they would take care of the situation,” said Velasquez. “I was scared because being how this is a small community and a lot of people were nervous”.
Utility crews have been checking and repairing pipes in the area after last week’s explosion, three blocks away, that left five people dead.
According to fire chief Robert Scherier, the changes in weather may create more problems.
“The ground shifts as it expands and contracts that could put tension on the pipes and it could create cracks and breaks,” said Scherier. “It’s as safe as it can be I guess. Anytime you involve natural gas, propane, you run the risk and you run dangers.”
Velasquez says she is still worried about the potential danger. “I feel safe but in a way kind of scared, just in case something were to happen,” she explained.
