11700-Blk Althea Dr – Explosion w/possible gas release

On Tuesday about 10:40am. Stations 227 & 225 were alerted for an unknown type explosion that came from the woods in the 11700-blk of Althea Dr. PHFM arrived on scene and speaking with witnesses confirmed multiple people hearing a loud explosion and a gasoline type odor in the area. 227EN arrived on scene. Witnesses reported seeing a someone with a fluorescent vest walking around the area where the explosion was heard from. 227 Chief requested all PHVFD's respond. Observing the wooded area with binoculars, crews were able to locate a large pipe with an unknown type vapor coming from it. Manpower and equipment were staged on Althea Dr. Crews were able to locate a "sewer pipe repair crew" working in the area. Confirming with the crew foreman, the crew had full accountability of all workers. The pipe repair crew was cleaning a main line sewer pipe and the process involved pushing a large pressurized bag through the pipe and the bag is designed to depressurized (explode) when it exits the pipe. The situation was placed under control and all units started to return back in service.

Command: 227 Chief (Jeffcoat)

Units: 227EN, 221EN, 223MP, 224EN, 225SQ, St. 222, 196EN2, PHFM, PHPD, PHEMS, PHEMA, ACHAZ