Berkshire Gas Hosts Annual First Responder Training on Natural Gas Emergency Response
Sessions enhance preparedness for local fire and rescue personnel on gas leak identification and safety protocols
PITTSFIELD, Mass. — March 7, 2025 — As part of its ongoing commitment to public safety, Berkshire Gas is hosting its annual first responder training seminars this month, providing local fire and rescue personnel with essential knowledge and skills for safely responding to natural gas emergencies. The training focuses on identifying gas leaks, establishing safety zones, and understanding evacuation procedures. These sessions are designed to improve emergency preparedness and enhance coordination between local first responders and Berkshire Gas crews.
“Ensuring the safety of our communities, customers, and employees is our top priority,” said Charlotte Ancel, Interim President of Berkshire Gas. “These annual training sessions help ensure that first responders are well-prepared, with the necessary tools and resources to handle natural gas emergencies. We look forward to continuing our partnership with local first responders to enhance communication and preparedness.”
The training includes an overview of natural gas properties, the odorant injection process at gate stations, and the Berkshire Gas distribution system, which serves 21 communities across Berkshire, Franklin, and Hampshire counties. Participants will receive hands-on demonstrations on safely shutting off gas meters, detecting gas leaks, identifying meter types, and using carbon monoxide detectors.
Key responder roles covered in the training include:
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Identifying and responding to gas leaks
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Evacuating affected areas and managing burning gas situations
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Utilizing gas detection tools such as the Combustible Gas Indicator (CGI)
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Recognizing warning signs of gas leaks
Berkshire Gas also highlights its Geographic Information System (GIS) technology, which helps track and optimize gas asset maintenance across its service territory.
"First responders are often the first on the scene, so it’s vital they are equipped with the right tools and protocols for identifying gas leaks and collaborating with Berkshire Gas during emergencies," said Michael Therrien, Supervisor of Distribution, Gas Operations at Berkshire Gas. "These training sessions foster improved communication between agencies, ensuring a more effective response."
“These seminars offer a valuable opportunity for direct, hands-on training with our local first responders,” said Chris Zahensky, Service Supervisor of Gas Operations at Berkshire Gas. “Every gas emergency is unique, so it’s crucial that first responders have the training to protect themselves, the community, and our customers.”
“The relationship with our local utility providers is essential for ensuring operational readiness during emergencies,” said John Pansecchi, Chief of the Adams Fire Department. “These training sessions help prepare our first responders for any situation.”
In addition to the first responder training, Berkshire Gas participates in educational outreach events like the Managing Underground Safety Training (MUST) seminar, where they present topics on Dig Safe laws, damage prevention, and best practices for working around natural gas.
Berkshire Gas remains committed to public safety by strengthening community partnerships and enhancing first responder education on natural gas emergencies. For more information on the program, visit, https://ngafirstresponder.com/.
Media Contact:
Marina Bach