West OC propane leak investigated

WEST OCEAN CITY, Md. – Fire officials responded to a leaking propane tank in West Ocean City Friday night.

At around 9:30 p.m., the Ocean City Fire Department responded to a report of a propane gas odor at 12627 Balte Road. On arrival, firefighters found a 250 gallon underground propane tank filled to 40% capacity that was leaking before the shut off valve feeding the residence. Officials consulted with the Maryland Department of the Environment’s Emergency Response Division and determined that since the tank was leaking from an unknown location, the best course of action would be to burn off or “flare” the remaining propane in the tank.

Following a lengthy operation, MDE hazmat specialists responded from Baltimore with specialized equipment. The situation was rendered safe at around 5 a.m. Saturday.

No injuries were reported. Fire marshals remind the public to take propane leaks seriously and call their local fire service as soon as possible if a leak is detected.