Frankfort, IL – Residents in the area of Steger Road and Ridgeland Avenue should expect a noticeable odor of natural gas today due to ongoing pipeline work. The Frankfort Fire Protection District has alerted the community that the maintenance, scheduled to conclude by 4 p.m., involves the release of Mercaptan, a chemical added to natural gas to aid in leak detection.
According to the Frankfort Fire Protection District, the presence of Mercaptan, which has a distinct, pungent smell, is a routine part of pipeline maintenance and not a cause for alarm. The smell, while strong and pervasive, does not indicate a gas leak but rather the intentional release of the substance to ensure safety measures are functioning correctly.
Officials advise residents to be aware of the situation and not to be alarmed by the odor. The pipeline work is essential to maintaining the integrity and safety of the gas distribution system in the area. Should residents have concerns or detect what they believe to be an actual gas leak, they are encouraged to contact the Frankfort Fire Protection District or their gas provider immediately.
