Black Hills Energy Responds To Parish Center Event

On Oct. 7 a tragedy occurred at the St. Patrick's Parish Center affecting the entire community of O'Neill. Black Hills Energy understands how unsettling this was, which is why we are writing to share important natural gas safety information. 

After working with police and fire officials on the scene to ensure the safety of residents in the area during an active fire situation, Black Hills Energy employees conducted a thorough assessment of our system including investigation of nearby structures. Testing confirmed there were no natural gas leaks on Black Hills Energy's gas distribution system outside of the damaged gas line caused by a low-speed vehicle collision with a natural gas riser, as reported by the O'Neill Police Department and Holt County Attorney.

Black Hills Energy technicians remained on the scene until 5 p.m. on Oct. 7 to assist in the removal of debris by performing line removal work as requested by the Fire Marshall. The team returned the following day to perform necessary system tests and complete service relites, once it was safe to do so.

As a longtime member of this community, we have provided customers with safe, reliable energy for more than 110 years. The safety of our neighbors, customers and employees is – and always will be – our highest priority. We would like to commend the fast-acting first responders, including five Black Hills Energy employees, who safely and efficiently responded on Oct. 7. These efforts do not go unnoticed. 

While natural gas has an outstanding safety record, it is important to know what to do if you smell natural gas, how to avoid damaging a gas line, and how to safely operate natural gas equipment in your home.

Please take a moment to review the enclosed safety information. To learn more about the many ways 

Black Hills Energy works to keep our customers, employees, and pipeline systems safe, please visit www.blackhillsenergy.com.

If you have questions or concerns, please call 888-890-5554 and speak to one of our Customer Service Representatives. 

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