Project research:

What we learned about the gas explosion and what we want others to learn:

The gas explosions started on September 13th 2018. The explosions occurred in Lawrence, Andover, and North Andover. Andover officials said at least 39 fires erupted in the communities of Lawrence, Andover and North Andover, 18 fires burning at the same time in the city of Andover. One man named Leonel Rondon was killed when the chimney of an exploding house fell on top of his car.Twenty-one people – including two firefighters – were injured. Firefighters, police and EMT’S from across the region rushed to Lawrence. Indiana -based NiSource said in statement “The first priority for our crews at the scene is to ensure the safety of our customers and the community.” Mass emergency management agency blamed fire on gas lines being over pressurized. The Red Cross of Massachusetts opened emergency shelters for those impacted by the fires at the Parthum Elementary School in Lawrence, North Andover High and the Andover Cormier Youth Center. Residents evacuated were able to return home on Sept. 16 by 7 a.m. Schools from all 3 cities returned on September 18th. The utility said it was making available more than 3,000 hotel rooms within 30 miles of the impact area, as well as 164 apartments, and was setting up 360 trailers equipped with heat and hot water in parks. Lawrence city council members are considering changing the name of Chickering Street in Rondon's honor.