San Bruno Explosion Still Too Hot to Handle

Less than 24 hours ago, families in San Bruno, California were sitting down to dinner when an exploding gas line sent them running out of their homes, grabbing pets and personal belongings as they ran. The explosion around 6 p.m. last night left a 15-foot crater at the source of the blast.

Chris Lane of the Pacific Gas& Electric Company stated in a press conference that gas lines were 40 to 50 years old. The explosion and fire destroyed 38 homes and caused some form of damage to scores of others. One fourth of the affected homes are still too hot to search, as well as, the source of the blast. Presently, the entire neighborhood has been roped off and is being treated like a crime scene.

The fire was contained earlier this afternoon and Mr. Lane complimented the first responders to the area for their timeliness and efficiency in handling not only the fire, but also the people caught in its path. Especially since their efforts were challenged by damaged water lines, leaving many fire hydrants dysfunctional. Presently, search and rescue dogs are going house to house, looking for anyone needing assistance.

So far four people have been reported dead with 137 or more injured. Local reporters stated that people reported hearing the explosion from ½ mile away and car alarms going off as far as 1 mile away. Fire units from nine surrounding cities and over 200 police officers helped the San Bruno police and fire personnel with traffic and emergency services.

For anyone trying to locate family or friends in the Glenview area go to www.safeandwell.org. To volunteer, please go to www.thevolunteercenter.net. Donations to victims and their families can be made through The American Red Cross at 1-800-REDCROSS. Please mention San Bruno Fire. The San Bruno Salvation Army is accepting item donations such as clothing and bedding at 300 Camino Real. Additionally, the Goodwill Agency located at 225 Kenwood Way in South San Francisco is another drop off point for donated goods.