Storm damage: Vectren to shut down gas service to large areas

Vectren plans to shut down natural gas service to “a significant portion of our service area both in Trotwood at the moment, and then likely in Harrison Twp. as well,” Vectren spokeswoman Natalie Hedde said at 3:45 a.m. Tuesday.

Hedde said the move was at the direction of Montgomery County fire and emergency officials, and was designed to “ensure the safety of all of our customers and property, in that order.”

In the aftermath of Monday night’s tornadoes, emergency responders could be heard on police and fire scanners discussing gas leaks in many areas.

Hedde said Vectren had enacted its emergency response plan, and was working “very closely” with fire departments to assess problems in the natural gas system.

She said if anyone smells gas, they should get out of the area and call 911 or call Vectren directly at 1-800-227-1376. Hedde said she could not recall a disaster with this level of damage.