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It was another busy day for emergency services in Chicago when a Level 1 Hazardous Materials situation unfolded at 204 N. Artesian Street today. People’s Gas was conducting excavation work when they accidentally hit a 4-inch medium-pressure gas line located right beneath the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) Green Line tracks on Lake Street. The situation quickly escalated, prompting Engine 26, Truck 7, Battalion 12, Squad 2, and the Hazardous Incident Team (5-1-1) to respond.
Engine 26 took the lead, deploying a 2.5-inch hose as a precautionary measure. Meanwhile, Battalion 12 coordinated with the CTA to temporarily shut down the elevated train service on Lake Street while People’s Gas worked to isolate and seal off the leaking section of the pipe. Thanks to their swift actions, the disruption to public transportation lasted only about 15 minutes.
Dan McInerney captured some incredible photos of the scene, offering a glimpse into how various agencies came together to manage the situation. In one image, we see representatives from the Chicago Fire Department (CFD), Chicago Police Department (CPD), CTA, and People’s Gas all present at the site, working collaboratively to ensure everyone's safety. Another shot highlights Battalion 12, who were the first-arriving officers responsible for overseeing the response efforts.
The photos also showcase Engine 26, a striking 2003 Spartan Gladiator/Crimson engine known for its unique red-painted headlight bezels—a detail that sets it apart from other vehicles in the fleet. Standing by with additional support was Haz Mat unit 5-1-1 and Squad 2 (5-5-2), parked strategically beneath the elevated tracks. These specialized vehicles, including the 2003 American LaFrance Eagle/Rescue Master squad and the 2000 HME/Central States squad unit, underscore the level of preparation and professionalism brought to bear in such incidents.
Adding further depth to the operation were the CTA Emergency Response Units, equipped with red lights and sirens, ready to assist with disruptions across the city. Additionally, Truck 7—a 2002 Pierce Dash, 100-foot rear-mount aerial ladder—was stationed nearby, providing essential backup and support.
As always, these events remind us of the dedication and teamwork displayed by our first responders. It’s not every day you get to witness such seamless coordination between multiple agencies, all working toward the same goal: keeping Chicago safe. I’m grateful to have been able to share this firsthand account through Dan McInerney’s vivid imagery.