H 240 - 2026

Report

In Alsenbrück-Langmeil, a gas line connected to a residential building was damaged during the installation of a fiber-optic cable, after which a distinct smell of gas was detected. As a result, the fire departments in Imsbach, Münchweiler, Lohnsfeld, and Winnweiler, as well as the Donnersberg District hazardous materials unit, were alerted.

On site, readings in the range of 10% of the lower explosive limit (LEL) were already detectable directly at the house, which is why two exclusion zones with radii of 20 and 100 meters were immediately established. In addition, the residential building was evacuated, and the surrounding buildings were also checked for occupants. A team wearing self-contained breathing apparatus entered the building and conducted further measurements. In the boiler room in the basement, levels of 40% LEL were already being measured, whereupon the building’s power was shut off. At the same time, fire safety measures were implemented, and a drone was deployed to survey the immediate vicinity for potential ignition sources or other hazards.

Shortly thereafter, the gas utility arrived at the scene. In coordination with the utility, the emergency crews began exposing the gas line so they could subsequently shut it off. During the operation, the small excavator from the public works yard was called in to assist. To stop the flow of gas into the building’s boiler room, an entry point was sealed using sealing compound. Ventilation measures were then initiated, causing the gas concentration to drop significantly. The outbuildings were also inspected and cleared of gas by a crew from the measurement technology vehicle.

After the gas line had been exposed and shut off, the affected building was ventilated once more. A measurement team then re-entered the building. Once the readings were determined to be safe, the scene was handed over to the homeowner, and the fire department personnel were able to return to the station. In addition to the fire department, a police vehicle and a German Red Cross (DRK) standby ambulance were on site to ensure the safety of the emergency personnel.