Winter Haven Gas Leak Causes Homes To Be Evacuated

WINTER HAVEN, FL — Two homes in Winter Haven had to be evacuated Monday night after officials discovered an underground natural gas leak.

First responders were called to the 1500 block of Oakview Circle SE. around 8:30 p.m. Monday when one of the residents reported the smell of gas.

"The resident contacted Florida Public Utilities who told the resident to call 9-1-1 and
exit the residence immediately," explained Jamie Brown of the Winter Haven Police Department.

She said Winter Haven Fire personnel worked with the utility company
in the neighborhood.

"An adjacent residence was also evacuated after it was found the leak was an underground natural gas leak," Brown said. "Approximately two hours later the leak was sealed, however it took additional time to ensure the air quality was safe for residents to re-enter their homes."

No one was injured during the incident. Residents were permitted back into their
homes after a time.

"The coordinated training with neighboring agencies including Florida Public
Utilities pays huge dividends for a safe and swift response for our citizens,
just as it did tonight," added Winter Haven Public Safety Director Charlie Bird. "We just
recently concluded training sessions regarding a natural gas leak which paid
off tonight."