MCCUTCHENVILLE, OH (Toledo News Now) - [if gte mso 9]>
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Last week was a scary and difficult time for residents living in McCutchenville, as families and business owners were forced out of their homes and workplaces. They were homeless for over 24 hours, due to frightening gas odors, and are still experiencing problems. The gas leak originated at a Clark gas station and then spread through the community.
Six businesses and 38 homes were affected, displacing 67 people.
The following day, officials learned that gasoline escaping from an underground storage tank infiltrated the storm water system, causing vapors to enter the residential and business structures.
Dean Henry, public information officer for Seneca County, said an unknown amount of gasoline leaked into the storm water system and vapors were detected in residential structures last Wednesday and early Thursday. A door-to-door check last Thursday afternoon showed vapors were no longer present.
However, residents still have questions and are curious if their homes truly are now safe.
"Never seen anything happen like this in this town," said Cheryl McDannell who lives across the street from the gas station.
A public forum regarding the McCutchenville fuel leak incident was held this Wednesday evening.
Representatives from the U.S. EPA, State Fire Marshal's Office, Seneca and Wyandot County General Health Districts, McCutchenville Volunteer Fire Department and Seneca County Emergency Management Agency were available to answer questions and keep the community informed on what activities and interventions are ongoing and planned for the future.
Private contractors working under the direction of the EPA and the State Fire Marshal's Office will be excavating and conducting cleanup of the gasoline leak.
The community is warned that the excavation process may cause the release of additional gasoline vapors into homes through the storm water system.
Residents continue to be advised that if they smell gasoline, or an odor that smells fruity or aromatic, they should leave their home immediately and call the McCutchenville Fire Department at 419-981-5005, or dial 911. They should not return home until a firefighter has cleared their home for re-entry.
"Well, as long as they get it taken care of, I'll be happy. Because I know they've been working very hard day and night," said McDannell.
Residents also are asked to cover their basement sump-pump pits, floor drains and any other connections to the storm sewer system as the situation is cleared up and life in McCutchenville returns to normal.
