2 Weeks After Explosion, Natural Gas Odor Causes Concerns In Woodstock

WOODSTOCK, IL — Weeks after a gas leak lead to a home explosion and house fires in Woodstock, emergency personnel were again called to the same area for a report of a natural gas odor Monday.

The Woodstock Fire/Rescue District responded to the 300 block of Lincoln Avenue in Woodstock at about 1:20 p.m. for the reported odor investigation and fire crews were told the natural gas odor was coming from an area across the parking lot at St. Mary's Church.

"A faint odor was noticeable but was difficult to pinpoint due to moderate winds," fire officials said in a news release.

Nicor Gas representatives responded and arrived at the scene a short time later, authorities said. They were able to quickly locate a small underground leak between the sidewalk and roadway and no other immediate hazards were present, according to the news release.

Nicor repaired the gas leak by 4:30 p.m. The issues was isolated to the area where it was reported, and Lincoln Avenue remained open throughout the afternoon and evening, according to fire officials.

St. Mary's Catholic Church cancelled all activities and closed the church grounds on Monday, according to a statement from the church. The church was notified of the fixes and announced the church grounds would reopen Tuesday and scheduled activities would also resume.

Daily masses will continue to be held in the St. Joseph Center and the sanctuary will remain closed until further notice, according to the statement.

Following Monday's incident — and the gas leak which lead to a home explosion on Lincoln Avenue on Oct. 9 — officials in Woodstock are urging residents to call 9-1-1 and evacuate the area if they notice a strong smell of natural gas.

"With the events that occurred two weeks ago on Lincoln Avenue we understand smelling natural gas in your home or business can be concerning," according to fire officials. "Let first responders or gas company representatives locate the leak, never attempt this on your own. Also, installing carbon monoxide alarms in your home can be an easy life-saving practice to keep your loved ones safe."

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