Ohio adopts one-call notification system for oil and gas emergencies
On Tuesday, Ohio Gov. John Kasich signed an executive order creating a 24/7 notification system for oil and gas emergencies. This order follows Governor Kasich’s veto of budget language from last year that sought to streamline reporting of fires, explosions, spills, and other emergencies.
Rick Simmers, oil and gas chief at the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), says the new notification system will enable multiple state entities to coordinate and respond more quickly. These entities include the Division of State Fire Marshal, the Environmental Protective Agency, the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio, and the ODNR.
Gov. Kasich authorized the ODNR and the Ohio Department of Commerce to set up this notification system and to devise the system’s rules. The number for the toll-free hotline will be 1-844-OHCALL1 (or 1-844-642-2551).
