Gas explosion in Greater Manchester injures 15

Gas explosion in Greater Manchester injures 15

2010-11-03 01:59:12 GMT+7 (ICT)

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND (BNO NEWS) -- A large gas explosion on the outskirts of Greater Manchester in England on Tuesday injured 15 people and destroyed four homes.

Residents in the housing association properties in Salford reported a strong smell of gas in the area moments before the explosion took place at around 7 a.m. local time, sending glass and debris flying in the area.

Of the 15 injured, one elderly woman suffered 30 percent burns over her body, although the injuries are not life-threatening.

Around 40 firefighters rushed to the scene and helped six people out of the rubble.

"There was a demolished building, people running everywhere," he said. "We had people go beyond the call of duty and rescue their neighbors," said Geoff Ackroyd of the Greater Manchester fire and rescue service.

Several families in the area were evacuated and taken to Fiddlers Lane Primary School where they were given refreshments. Many of them were still in pajamas, gowns, and slippers.

-- © BNO News All rights reserved 2010-11-03