Damage assessment has started
Friday, November 06, 2009 at 11:41 a.m.
Read more: Local, State, Community, Bushland, El Paso, El Paso Natural Gas, Natural Gas
AMARILLO, TEXAS -- Pronews 7 just got off the phone with Richard Wheatley of El Paso Natural Gas, Wheatley said the initial damage assessment has started.
Wheatley said while they have started some evaluations it will be a lengthy process. Pronews 7 also checked with the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, or PHMSA, who are here overseeing the work of El Paso Natural Gas and coordinating efforts with them. Wheatley said there are numerous steps involved in repairing the gas line, all of which the PHMSA has to approve. El Paso also had a crisis counselor at the schools today what met with superintendent, principals and faculty today.
For people who were injured or had their homes damaged, El Paso Natural Gas does have a claims process. Today, they will be talking to those residents who were affected by the explosion. The company will also be handing out a list of contacts to the residents, and making house calls today to go over everything and see what needs need to be met. The company said those who have lost their homes and who were injured will be their top priority.
