Gas line explosion in Fresno Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Gas line explosion in Fresno - Essay Example During the explosion, at least 11 people were injured. Most of the victims were inmates who were near the blast site. In this case, the inmates had been assigned cleaning and maintenance duties at the firing range (Marcum & Therolf, 2015). However, three other inmates were unhurt. Firefighters assigned to put out the explosion revealed that, the blaze blackened front loader and formed a crater at the site. The explosion however did not create property damage in the area. Although there were no indications that the PG&E Company had a hand in the fiery accident, the Fresno County Sheriffs are investigating the company’s natural-gas operations. Extensive scrutiny is conducted due to the company’s natural-gas operations that killed at least 8 people after the San Francisco blast in San Bruno suburb (Marcum & Therolf, 2015). On the other hand, the National Transportation Safety Board is blaming PG&E safety practices and Iax lapse by state regulators especially for this occurrence. The State regulators had earlier leveled the biggest-ever fine against utility in the state to cost at least $1.6 billion. This was against PG&E for its role in the Bruno blast (Marcum & Therolf, 2015). Catastrophic pipeline emergencies remain rare. However, with the increasing pipeline catastrophes across the United States, adequate preparation and responses remain important in minimizing life and property risks from pipeline emergencies. To plan effectively for pipeline catastrophes, it is important that emergency responders understand how best the emergency response works. Additionally, the authorities in charge must use resources and tools available in assisting with disaster preparedness and response. Excavators and pipeline organizations must always coordinate before digging. Communities must also consider implementing some of the recommended practices by the PIPA. Most of these recommendations address on people and property protection. They also