PSEG, first responders conduct gas emergency preparedness drill

In an effort to ensure disaster preparedness, New Jersey’s Public Service Electric & Gas Co. (PSE&G) on Aug. 13 partnered with first responders from Willingboro, N.J., in a safety exercise that simulated a gas emergency.

“Keeping our communities, customers, and employees safe is our top priority,” said Wade Miller, PSE&G senior director of Gas Field Operations. “These exercises enhance our emergency response and coordination to protect lives.

“It’s also always great to work with fellow first responders in real-life situations to further strengthen our partnerships,” Miller added.

The four-hour exercise allowed PSE&G and local safety professionals to practice keeping the public safe in the event of third-party damage to PSE&G natural gas facilities.

The exercise, which was held behind the Kennedy Center, also provided the opportunity to test incident command and evacuation procedures, according to participants.

“We appreciate the opportunity to host this important emergency gas response drill in collaboration with PSE&G,” Willingboro Township Mayor Kaya McIntosh said. “This simulation ensures the proper coordination of resources and preparedness between our first responders and utility partners, enhancing the safety of our residents.”

The training drill with first responders also allowed participants to practice certain procedures for handling natural gas that are different from those they are used to, said PSE&G.

For example, the evacuation distance is further for a gas emergency, turning off power may not be possible, and automatic generators or solar panels can be potential sources of ignition.

Exercise participants and observers included representatives from PSE&G, Willingboro EMS, the Willingboro Fire Department, the Willingboro Police Department, Burlington County, New Jersey Natural Gas, South Jersey Industries, the New Jersey Division of Fire Safety, and the Board of Public Utilities.

This is the fourth gas safety exercise PSE&G has held this year, with six total planned.

The utility said its safety exercises and training initiatives are part of ongoing efforts to educate community members within PSE&G’s service area about emergency preparedness.

PSE&G said that last year it responded to 853 calls (736 gas and 117 electric) related to excavation damages, and overall is able to respond to 99.9 percent of gas emergency calls within one hour.

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