Deputy 5-13 (R. Sample) responded and was advised by Lancaster County-Wide Communications that they received a 911 call from a boater in the area of the Peach Bottom Atomic Power Plant stating he witnessed bubbles coming up from the water. The caller believed that the bubbles may be coming from a ruptured underwater gas line.

Deputy 5-13 arrived at the marina and met up with local river expert Fenton Hart and they discussed the possibilities and locations of the gas lines. We know of two gas pipelines travelling under the river but neither is in the area of where the 911 caller was describing. Fenton Hart also suggested we investigate the new water intake pipes recently installed for the new power station in York County.

Engine 5-13-5 (Asst. Hodgden W/4) pulling Boat 5-13 made the response to the Peach Bottom Marina and after loading up with the essential equipment headed out to the general area of the pipeline up around the Drumore Township line. Boat 5-8-1 arrived soon after and headed out to assist Boat 5-13 with searching the pipeline in the area of the Maryland state line. Rescue 5-13 (Lt. Stoltzfus W/5) was placed into staging.

After searching the areas of both underwater pipelines, as well as the water intake pipes, it was determined that the caller probably witness the reverse surge coming from the intake pipes, as it did resemble large air bubbles coming up from the water.

All units were placed in service at 3:16.

We would like to thank Kerry and Donna Stoudt, owners of the Peach Bottom Marina for allowing us to use the boat ramp for our emergency responses as well as our water rescue training classes. You can visit the marina online at www.peachbottommarina.com