Wheeling leak resolved without injury

Things were back to normal the day after a gas tank leak at a Wheeling factory.

The incident occurred around 5:30 p.m. Thursday, according to Howard Laga, vice president and general manager of the firm, The Penray Companies Inc., 440 Denniston Court, which manufactures aerosol cans.

Laga said each of his company's pressurized gas tanks has a dual set of pressure relief valves. One of the parts on a pressure relief valve failed, he said.

Laga said neighbors became aware because a shrill noise is let out when the relief valve fails. Neighbors notified police, who then called the fire department as a precaution.

"One of the propellants we use to make aerosol cans was released in the air," Laga said, but added that not much was discharged after the initial release and the amount leaking soon subsided. He compared the effect to opening a can of pop. "It fizzes and then it equalizes."

Laga did not have an exact figure on how much was released. He said that information is still being determined.

"The Wheeling fire department and fire departments from the surrounding areas did a wonderful job of addressing the situation," Laga said. Fire departments from Mount Prospect, Elk Grove Village and Buffalo Grove assisted.

An open house at Wheeling's Mark Twain Elementary School to introduce parents to curriculum was interrupted by the event.

Twain Principal Gwen Gage said the school was preparing for the open house when it was notified by Wheeling police of the incident.

The school then made a general announcement to parents, students and staff, who then filed out of the building, escorted by police.

"We are grateful for the police and fire departments working together with us in such a harmonious manner," said Gage, who added she is also proud of parents and students exiting in a calm and orderly manner.

Gage said a followup letter is being sent to parents about the rescheduled event, which will be held 7 p.m. Tuesday.