At approximately 3:12 a.m. on January 1, 2023, PGW responded to the report of an explosion at 3550 Miller Street from the Philadelphia Fire Department (PFD). Prior to the incident, PGW is not aware of receiving any calls reporting gas odors from the vicinity.
At this time, the cause of the incident has not been identified by the Fire Marshall and remains under investigation. PGW is assisting in the investigation along with all other agencies. Investigation steps taken by PGW and its results to date are:
On Jan. 1: PGW conducted state-of-the-art leak detection surveys on all underground natural gas mains and service pipe on Miller, Gaul, Venango, Atlantic, and Belgrade Streets. Mains and service pipes were found to be in good operating condition and PGW identified no natural gas leaks on any surveyed PGW natural gas infrastructure. Each leak survey and safety check were conducted in coordination with the onsite Pennsylvania Utility Commission Safety Division.
On Jan. 2: PGW began testing the PGW pipeline infrastructure that runs from the main in the roadway to the meter inside each impacted property. This test investigates the integrity of the pipe. The first property tested was 3546 Miller.
The service pipe at 3546 Miller was found to be in good operating condition, passed the pressure test, and no leaks were found.
On Jan. 3:
The service pipe at 3548 Miller was tested and found to be in good operating condition, passed the pressure test, and no leaks were found.
As additional due diligence, PGW also conducted a pressure test at 3552 Miller and 3554 Miller where the service pipes was also found to be in good operating condition, passed the pressure test, and no leaks were found.
PGW will next test 3550 Miller, once given access by the Fire Department and L&I.
It is important to note that, PGW’s control is limited to the infrastructure that ends at the first connection downstream of the gas meter (or the outlet of the natural gas meter). Everything beyond that outlet belongs to the property owner, so PGW is not able to determine the condition or integrity of inside piping or appliances that are beyond the meter.
As stated previously, the cause of the incident has not been identified by the Fire Marshall and remains under investigation.
PGW regularly monitors, inspects, and maintains our system and administers leak response 24/7. We survey our entire 3,000-mile system every year, as well. We investigate every odor call we receive and conduct maintenance, whenever needed.
If, at any time, someone believes they smell a gas odor – they should leave the area and immediately call PGW at 215-235-1212 or call 911.
All utilities including PGW add a rotten egg smell to natural gas. If you smell a rotten egg-like smell or odor, please call 215-235-1212 or call 911. These phone lines are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
IMPORTANT CONTACTS:
Please refer all PGW media inquiries to PGW Corporate Communications Team.
If you have a damage claim it is vitally important that you call your insurance providers as soon as possible, for homeowners, renters, and auto (if applicable).
If the investigation reveals a responsible party, you can then file a claim against that entity.
At approximately 3:12 a.m. on January 1, 2023, PGW responded to the report of an explosion at 3550 Miller Street from the Philadelphia Fire Department (PFD). Upon arrival PGW crews began work to turn off natural gas service to the affected area in support of the Fire Department.
At this time the cause of the incident has not been identified by the Fire Marshall and remains under investigation. PGW will continue our work to support the PFD and the PUC in investigating the incident along with all area agencies.
PGW regularly monitors, inspects and maintains our system and administers leak response 24/7. We investigate every odor call we receive and conduct maintenance, whenever needed. PGW is not aware of any recent calls from the area reporting gas odors prior to the incident.
If anyone believes they smell a gas odor – leave the area and immediately call PGW at 215-235-1212.
All utilities including PGW add a rotten egg smell to natural gas. If you smell a rotten egg-like smell, please call 215-235-1212. This line is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Do not report gas odor on social media channels – they are not monitored 24/7.
IMPORTANT CONTACTS:
Please refer all PGW media inquiries to PGW Corporate Communications: 267-249-7542.
PGW will handle damage claims based on the result of the incident investigation. Anyone filing a claim with PGW Risk must call 215-684-6535 or 6536 and they also will need to make a claim with their homeowners or auto insurance carrier, as well.
PHILADELPHIA (December 21, 2022) – Philadelphia Gas Works (PGW) offices will close at noon on Friday, December 23, 2022 and be closed on Monday, December 26, 2022 in observance of Christmas. PGW offices will be closed in observance of New Year’s on Monday, January 2, 2023. PGW’s 24-hour Emergency Hotline will remain open for emergency calls. All odor calls or gas-related emergencies should be immediately reported by calling 215-235-1212.
Following the Christmas closure, PGW offices will resume regular business hours on Tuesday, December 27, 2022.
Following the New Year’s closure, PGW offices will resume regular business hours on Tuesday, January 3, 2023.
Customers who need to access account information or pay their bill online can log into theirPGW My Account, pay by phone at 215-235-1000 or make cash payments in person at hundreds of local retailers, including Walmart, CVS, Dollar General, Family Dollar, 7-Eleven, and Rite Aid. For information, visit pgworks.com/customer-care/your-home/ways-to-pay.
The safety of PGW’s customers, employees, and City residents is always a top priority as family and friends gather to celebrate holidays. Keep the holidays festive and follow these important safety tips:
Avoid electrical fires by purchasing lights from reputable retailers and only those approved by nationally recognized testing labs like UL, Intertek or CSA.
Homes should be equipped with carbon monoxide (CO) detectors on each floor to alert residents of leaks of this odorless gas.
Be sure to check the Christmas tree — make sure it has plenty of water and it isn't near heat sources.
Never leave candles or fireplaces burning unattended.
Wash hands frequently when handling food.
Do not drink and drive.
If any household member feels ill, stay at home to protect others.
Keep floors clear of bags, toys, boxes, and any household items to prevent tripping hazards.
PGW wishes its customers and the residents of Philadelphia a safe and healthy New Year. Be sure to celebrate responsibly.
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