BC Fire Training

I feel obligated as a gas technician & retired firefighter, to explain this scene. You are looking at the aftermath of a gas explosion, that occured in Farmingt...on Maine today. There have been many of these type explosions across the world. They all have a couple common denominators in play. As a natural and propane gas technician, I can tell you that I have responded to these "gas odor" calls, with this exact outcome sitting in my mind. The closest I have ever come to this, was as a tech for National Grid in Rhode Island. I approached a building on a natural gas odor call, and could smell it myself within 100ft of the 3 story building in Central Falls, RI. I immediately informed my dispatch of the situation, and requested fire department and our supervisor via radio. We had specific measuring devices for measuring the LEL & UEL of gas to air ratios. 4-14% gas to air was within explosive limits. I cracked the entry door and got 6%, which was 1 floor above the basement (where service pipe entered building). I knew from outside, that there were occupants inside. FREEZE. At that moment, I knew I was reponsible for everything that happened thereafter. All I could do was holler through the stairway/entryway into building. Thankfully, all occupants heard me and evacuated. My instructions were loud and clear... please exit the building and DO NOT TOUCH ANY LIGHT SWITCHES OR UNPLUG ANYTHING. I want to share this, because a lot of people don't realize that the slightest arc inside a light switch, can trigger an explosion with those explosive gas levels. Just unplugging a charger can create that spark. I want everyone to learn from this. PLEASE Share this if you can... I don't know the circumstances with the Farmington call, but I do know a source of ignition triggered the explosion. Knowledge is power my friends. My prayers are with all involved, and may Captain Bell R.I.P. ~Aaron Bradeen~ Former Firefighter & First Responder Gas Technician. See more

Fire and EMS Friends: Please pass this very important upcoming program around to area departments. Everyone is welcome to attend. Cancers are affecting too m...any firefighters and we must take actions to minimize the risks associated with our profession. Knowledge is the first step. We all know someone who is battling cancer and from a personal account, it sucks to have to go through it. We are a Brotherhood and we must protect each other. Hope to see you there on June 18th. See more