Sulphur, Louisiana – A pipeline compression station in Sulphur lost power and safety systems were triggered causing a large flare. Due to the visible flames and noise, Houston River Fire Department was dispatched. The incident occurred at approximately 9:23 pm off West Burton Street.

According to officials, the pipeline compression station lost electricity, causing the compressors to shut down. However, the built-in safety systems functioned as designed, diverting the product to a large flare. This safety measure prevented any potential hazards from affecting the surrounding area.

Upon arrival, firefighters found that the facility’s safety systems had worked as intended, and there was no off-site impact. Plant operators were in the process of shutting down the facility to ensure a safe restart once power is restored.

The Fire Chief was in immediate contact with the pipeline company’s site manager, who assured them that the situation was under control and posed no threat to the public.

The Ward Six Fire Protection District No. One was also dispatched to the scene but was subsequently canceled. Additionally, the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office (CPSO) and Acadian Ambulance responded to the incident.

Fortunately, no injuries or damage were reported. The Houston River Fire Department’s prompt response and the facility’s safety systems ensured that the incident was contained and did not pose a risk to the surrounding community.

The pipeline compression station is a facility used to compress natural gas, allowing it to be transported more efficiently through pipelines. The compression process involves using large compressors to increase the pressure of the gas, making it easier to transport over long distances.

In this incident, the loss of electricity caused the compressors to shut down, triggering the safety systems to activate. The large flare, which is a safety device designed to burn off excess gas, was used to safely dispose of the product.