| On Tuesday, April 14 at 5:42 p.m., Montrose was alerted to a reported propane explosion with unknown extent in the Cortlandt Manor area of the district. This activated the Tri-Village response system, in which the agency where the incident occurs responds, while two neighboring agencies stand by for coverage or additional assistance if needed.
Upon arrival, crews determined that the residence itself was not affected, but there was a strong odor of propane in the area. Further investigation revealed that a 500-gallon propane tank had been overfilled during the winter. With this day being the warmest of the year, the increased pressure caused the tank’s relief valve to activate and then fail, releasing compressed liquid propane into the air. This created a visible white vapor, which had been mistaken for an explosion.
Due to the hazardous situation, a hydrant was connected and two hose lines were deployed. The residence was checked for any proane readings. Chief Gilleo notified a local propane company and the Westchester County Hazmat Team for further assistance.
When the Hazmat Team arrived, they determined the best course of action was to perform a flare-off. This controlled burn reduced the pressure inside the tank to safe levels. Once the tank pressure was stabilized, the remaining propane was transferred into the propane company’s service truck for removal.
Units remained on scene until 1:00 a.m., making the incident a seven-hour operation. The propane company, Westchester County Department of Emergency Services Hazmat Team, and the NYS Office of Fire Prevention (State Fire) provided their expertise subject knowledge into this matter and were also able to walk some of our members thru the incident as we don’t usually encounter these types of incidents to often. Appreciation is also extended to 60 Control and neighboring fire departments, Buchanan and Verplanck, who stood by to provide coverage during the extended operation. |
