UGI Workers Become First Responders While Passing by Rutland Township House Fire

Two UGI employees, Journeymen Mike E. and Tom T. (above left and center), were driving through Rutland Township in Tioga County when they saw smoke coming from a home but had no cell service to call 911.

On November 20, they had just finished a routine leak survey not far away and were on their way to another location when they came upon the fire.

“We drove by and saw smoke, pulled over and jumped out,” says Mike. “The first thing I thought was, ‘Are there people inside?’”

Mike and Tom knocked on the front door, and when they realized no one was home, they immediately did all they could to get help and prevent additional danger. They shut off gas to the house, radioed into UGI and fellow Journeyman Deryl M. (pictured at right) called 911, they moved a propane grill off the porch, relocated outdoor pets to safety, and continued to help firefighters after they arrived.

“UGI promotes an ‘I’ll be there’ vision among its employees. When they are needed, they’ll be there. Mike, Tom and Deryl’s actions are examples of living that vision,” says UGI Operations Manager Kevin F. “UGI is very proud of their response to an emergency, which went beyond their day-to-day responsibilities and reflects our commitment to the safety of the communities we serve.”