That moment I realized I was drilling into a live gas line

I was installing a wireless alarm panel in a basement remodel in Chicago last month. The homeowner said the wall was clear. I used my stud finder to check for wires and pipes but it didn't pick up anything. I drilled right into a 1/2 inch black iron gas pipe. The hissing sound was immediate. Now I always use a high quality pipe detector before I drill into any wall, even if the customer says it's safe. Has anyone else had a close call like this?

2 comments

2 Comments

emma_smith12d ago

Did you call the gas company right away or just book it out of there?

hart.taylor12d ago

Honestly people act like a tiny gas smell means the whole block's about to explode.