Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) has prevented a potential catastrophic explosion after a gas main ruptured and caught ablaze at Manly, in Sydney's Northern Beaches.
A worker sustained minor burns as a result of the fire, which broke out on Darley Road, near Ashburner Street, around 10:45 am. He was checked over by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being taken to the hospital for further treatment to his face and hands.
FRNSW firefighters
A dozen FRNSW firefighters worked for two-and-a-half hours to cool adjoining utility services. They didn't attempt to extinguish the fire as this would have allowed uncontrolled gas to escape and possibly trigger an explosive re-ignition.
Gas supplies have since been shut off, and residual gas has burned out. Gas company technicians will now further assess and repair the damaged line. Darley Road remains closed while operations continue.
