319 CES Airmen detect, respond to gas leak

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Luis Loza Gutierrez
  • 319th Air base Wing Public Affairs
GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  Last month, on what seemed like a regular Monday morning, two members from the 319th Civil Engineer Squadron were working out at the Grand Forks Fitness Center when they detected something different in the air.

"When I originally walked in the gym I thought I had smelled it faintly," Staff Sgt. Cole Frank. "Prior to working out I went to the locker room where the very clear and distinct smell of the natural gas additive (usually ethanethiol) was abundant."

Frank, a structural craftsman from the 319th CES facility inspections section, said he was able to recognize the smell of the special odorant thanks to his experience working as a civil engineer in locations where gas leaks have occurred. He also added that his mother worked for Minnegasco/Center Point Energy for the last 15 or so years, hence the familiarity.

Frank said he verified the distinct smell with Timme.

"I immediately asked the front desk if anyone had reported smelling the natural gas additive," said the NCO. "When he (the fitness center Airman) replied 'No,' I instantly picked up the phone and started dialing the fire department control desk. I informed them of the issue and they were quick to respond.

"While I was on the phone Airman Timme recommended that the gym staff should clear the locker room."

Frank said the fire department concurred with Timme's recommendation and everyone in the center was moved to the south end of the facility near the pool/rock wall area.

The 319th CES Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) shop later confirmed that that the gas escaped from a leak found on a broken half-inch natural gas line in a boiler room.

There have been no reports of any person at the fitness center becoming ill because of the gas leak that day.

Base medical officials praised the Airmen for taking action that day.

"I believe that (the) quick response helped lower the risk of the gas reaching high levels of exposure, which could have led to the propane displacing or forcing out enough oxygen to cause asphyxia; leading to symptoms of difficulty breathing, mood change, diminished motor function, unconsciousness and, if untreated, death," said Capt. (Dr.) Matthew Hall, from the 319th Medical Operations Squadron.