Amid Loudoun County Explosion Investigation, Propane Service Resumes

UPDATE: As of April 2, propane delivery was allowed to resume, per the Loudoun County Fire and Rescue Fire Marshal’s Office. The fire marshal lifted the propane restrictions as Southern States provider updated the fire prevention code. The investigation into the Feb. 16 home explosion is ongoing.

LOUDOUN COUNTY, VA — Propane service in Loudoun County will have some hiccups temporarily due to the ongoing investigation of the Sterling home explosion that killed a firefighter and injured 14 others.

The Loudoun County Fire Marshal's Office said it imposed restrictions on the propane service company, Southern States Cooperative, Inc. – Leesburg – Fairfax Petroleum Service. The restrictions affect propane service within the county and its towns, which may cause interruptions to propane service.

The fire marshal's office said the restrictions are happening as Southern States completes its fire code update.

Fire investigators had determined the Feb. 16 home explosion at 347 Silver Ridge Drive in Sterling was related to a 500-gallon underground propane tank. Propane leaked into and around the home, but investigators have not yet determined what the ignition source was. More information will be released when the investigation is done.

The home explosion killed Sterling Volunteer Fire Company firefighter Trevor Brown and injured 14 others, including two residents. Fire personnel were investigating a gas leak report when the explosion happened. It resulted in a total loss of the home and property damage to at least six other homes. The last property damage from the fire department was $2.5 million.

After the explosion, Loudoun County Fire and Rescue recommended safety tips for propane use. Residents who smell gas or suspect a gas leak should evacuate and leave the area before contacting 911 and the propane retailer. Residents are encouraged to not reenter until it is cleared by a qualified professional. Signs of a propane leak may include a hissing or blowing sound, rotten-egg odor, or blowing dirt and dead or dying vegetation.

The fire department recommended having propane systems and appliances installed, inspected, serviced, and repaired by the propane retailer or a qualified professional. Running out of propane could also create a safety hazard and requires an inspection before turning gas back on. Residents should also know where underground gas lines and tanks are located.

SEE ALSO:

• Loudoun County House Explosion: Firefighter Dead, 13 Injured
• Loudoun County Explosion: Procession For Firefighter, Fundraisers