Around Noontime on Friday, Croton's Bravest were called to the Van Wyck Shopping Center on Maple Street for a gas leak. Con Edison was on location working on a leak that our units handled just two days earlier, and needed the CFD's assistance.

Upon the arrival of Car 2081 (Chief Vlad), Con Ed reported they had elevated gas levels within the shopping center, and a high pressure leak in the parking lot. What was further complicating the incident was the inability to turn off the valve. Due to this condition, a full evacuation of the shopping center was made.

The crews of E119, E120, TL44 & R18 made quick order having the employees and customers in all of the businesses - Wells Fargo Bank, Pircio Cleaners, State Farm Insurance, CVS Pharmacy, Chelsea Nail Spa and the Post Office - evacuate to safer ground.

While the Con Edison crews aggressively worked to contain the leak, our units remained on location securing a perimeter and periodically monitoring gas levels.

When the leak was finally mitigated, Croton Fire units were returned to service, some three hours later. Repairs to the gas service in the shopping center have been ongoing since.