The Port Alberni Fire Department is asking the public to avoid part of the downtown core due to a gas line break.
They say the natural gas line break is near the 3900-block of 3rd Avenue.
The damage is being reported as minor, and crews are on scene making repairs.
A spokesperson with FortisBC confirmed approximately eight customers would experience a service interruption as a result of the incident.
Sean Beardow, manager of corporate communications for FortisBC, says most of these types of incidents are a result of people forgetting to call before digging.
“The majority of these incidents are preventable. Stats show that 90 per cent of them are preventable,” said Beardow.
He says if you hit a line, you can be held financially responsible for its repair.
“In instances like this, we have dedicated damage prevention folks that go and check out the scene. People who hit lines can be held liable for the damages incurred.”
This incident serves as a reminder to call before you dig.
If you do hit a line, immediately stop what you’re doing, shut off any power tools or machinery and contact the proper authorities.
FortisBC’s emergency line can be reached at 1-800-663-9911, or dial 911.
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