LILBURN - (Wednesday, September 08, 2010) Gwinnett County Firefighters are currently on the scene of a natural gas leak outside in the 300 block of Killian Hill Road and Highway 29 in the city of Lilburn.  Firefighters responded on Wednesday, September 08, 2010 at 1:20 p.m. after a construction crew hit a 4-inch plastic gas line while doing road work.  Fire crews found a strong odor of natural gas and an active leak on arrival.  Dirt blowing up from the ground by the escaping gas was visible around the immediate leak site.

Firefighters have closed Killian Hill Road between Lawrenceville Highway and Poplar Drive.  Police are diverting traffic and motorists are being asked to seek alternate routes and avoid the area.  Four businesses (approximately 15 people) in the immediate hot zone have been evacuated as a precaution until the leak is stopped.

An emergency crew from Atlanta Gas Light is on the scene working to bring the leak under control.  The power company has also been requested to cut power directly over the leak site.  The power is being cut to eliminate any potential ignition sources for the escaping gas and to maintain safety while crews operate close to the leak.  Members of the fire department's Hazardous Materials Response Team continue to monitor gas readings and firefighters have a hoseline on the ground to protect gas company workers and nearby exposures.

Additional media information will be sent by the Fire-PIO when available. 

INCIDENT DATE: 09/08/10

TIME DISPATCHED: 1:20 p.m.

THE INCIDENT IS STILL ONGOING AT THIS TIME

LOCATION: 300 Block of Killian Hill Road, Lilburn

EQUIPMENT AT THE SCENE INCLUDES: Engine-2, Engine-25, Squad-20, Hazmat-20, and Battalion-2.