Contractor Chaos! Why a Glen Rock Gas Leak Is a Crucial Reminder for Every NJ Homeowner
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Glen Rock NJ, last week, residents in Glen Rock, NJ, were reminded of a critical safety rule after a routine home project escalated into an emergency situation. A contractor, while installing a fence, accidentally struck a crucial underground gas line, prompting a swift response from local police and fire crews.
Thankfully, the situation was contained quickly with no injuries and no evacuations required. However, the incident provides a powerful and timely lesson for every homeowner and contractor in Bergen County and across New Jersey: Always Call 811 Before You Dig!
The Incident: Fence Installation Goes Wrong
The emergency unfolded just before 11 a.m. last Wednesday on Garvey Place in Glen Rock.
- The Cause: A contractor working on a fence installation was digging when their equipment struck an unmarked, active underground gas line.
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The Response: The resulting gas leak triggered an immediate emergency response from Glen Rock Firefighters. Crews quickly secured the area, monitored air quality, and waited for the utility team to arrive.
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The Resolution: PSE&G crews arrived promptly and successfully repaired the damaged line, bringing the situation under control.
Glen Rock Police confirmed the incident occurred during the week of November 10-16, a period during which the department handled 324 total calls for service, highlighting the disruptive nature of this particular emergency.
The Critical Lesson: Why You MUST Call 811
Glen Rock Police issued a statement emphasizing the preventable nature of this incident, using it as a teachable moment for the entire community.
The rule is simple, yet often overlooked: Before you dig—even for small projects—call 811.
What is 811?
811 is the national “Call Before You Dig” number. When you call 811, your local utility companies (gas, electric, water, cable, phone) are notified and dispatched to visit your property. They will mark the approximate location of all underground utility lines in your proposed digging area with colored paint or flags for free.
Police Safety Reminder: Residents and contractors are reminded to always call 811 before digging, even for small projects like fence installation or landscaping. That way, they can ensure underground utilities are properly marked and avoid hazardous situations.
Risks of Not Calling 811:
Failing to call 811 carries severe risks:
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Hazardous Leaks: Striking a gas line can cause explosions, fires, and dangerous leaks requiring emergency evacuation.
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Power Outages: Damaging electrical lines can lead to widespread power loss and electrocution risk.
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Expensive Repairs: Homeowners and contractors can be held financially liable for the costly repairs to damaged utility infrastructure.
Protect Your Home, Property, and Community
Whether you are a professional contractor or a homeowner planning a small DIY project this weekend, remember that utility lines often run just inches below the surface. A simple phone call to 811 a few days before you plan to start digging is the easiest way to protect yourself, your property, and the entire Glen Rock community from a dangerous and unnecessary emergency.
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