Fire Log: Leaking Grill Sparks Propane Blaze

Outside gas leak

August 8 – At 11:07 a.m. firefighters dispatched to Common and Fairmont streets for a gas leak outside. On arrival an odor was detected near the storm drain on Common Street. The area residence reported no odor inside his home. National Grid notified to respond.

More of the same

August 8 – At 4:03 p.m., fire units were dispatched to the area of Long Avenue at Howard Street for a reported outside odor of gas. On arrival an intermittent odor detected in area. Residents in the

area reported no odor in the dwellings. National Grid was notified to respond.

False alarm at Burbank

August 9 – At 8:09 a.m., all available BFD companies were dispatched to 266 School St., the Burbank School, to investigate the fire alarm activation (Box 2424). The incident was determined to be workmen unintentionally setting off the smoke detector.

Propane flames threaten houses

August 10 – At 8:23 p.m., all BFD units were dispatched to a Belmont Street residence for a propane grill on fire next to the house. Engine 1 ran a 1 3/4 inch x 200-foot hose line and controlled the fire and protected any exposures while letting the propane burn. The propane self extinguished at some point and Engine 1 continued vapor dispersion until the propane tank was empty. The propane tanks relief valve was activated and that was the source of the leak and ensuing fire.

Future gas line 

August 11 – At 8:57 p.m. firefighters were dispatched to Washington Street and Watson Road for an apparent hazardous material release. There was a moderate odor of natural gas in the area, and national grid was notified to respond. The area did appear to be a future work site for the gas company.

Dryer connection mishap 

August 14 – At 4:06 p.m. units were dispatched to a Burnham Street address for a possible gas leak inside. Engine 1's investigation reported a strong odor of gas on the third floor with a reading of 20 percent on the LEL (Lower Explosive Level) meter. The source of the leak was discovered to be a broken connection to a gas dryer that had been pulled away from the wall by workmen. The gas was shut off and the top floor ventilated.