3:18pm Friday 3rd September 2010
By Paul Ferguson
FIRE crews have averted a major explosion in the centre of Ross-on-Wye.
Land next to Ross Community Hospital was sealed-off this morning following a petrol leak in the car park.
Police closed Old Gloucester Road after a passer-by spotted LPG (liquid petroleum gas) leaking from a green Saab.
LPG is highly flammable and potentially deadly when released, as the gas is heavier than air and lies low.
Fire crews spent several hours using a gas monitor to assess levels and have checked the basements of nearby buildings.
Firefighters with breathing apparatus were also on standby in case fire broke out.
They also urged local residents to stay indoors and were prepared to evacuate the hospital, which remained open.
Emergency services lifted the cordon at 1.45pm after fire officers isolated the Saab’s petrol tank.
The car was returned to its owner, but cannot be driven until fully checked by an accredited LPG engineer.
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