Several blocks of homes were evacuated around Collins Ave. in Mandan due to an early morning gas leak.Â

A person walking on the 1000 block of Collins Avenue reported a strong odor of gas at 5:54 a.m. The Mandan Fire Department and Mandan police initially barracaded an area of about two blocks on either side, from 6th Street to 12th Street, and assisted residents with evacuation to the Mandan Fire Department.

About 10 to 15 people sought shelter in the fire department building; others left with friends or family, personnel said.

MDU Utilities was on the scene and has since opened up all but two blocks, said Lt. Chris Miller with the Mandan Police Department. As of 9:30 a.m., all but two blocks on Collins, from 8th Street to Division Street, were open for traffic.

First Baptist Church services were also canceled due to the leak.

The Emergency Operations Center has been activated, and the Red Cross was notified to assist any residents who may have been displaced, Miller said.

Miller also cautioned any residents who may still receive natural gas to conserve it as much as they can. For any immediate assistance, call 667-3307.

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