CINCINNATI — Officials with the Metropolitan Sewer District and the Cincinnati Fire Department are investigating a potential gasoline spill into the sewer system in West Price Hill, the two agencies announced over the weekend.

According to a news release, investigators believe the leak occurred on Dec. 24, potentially from a gas station. As part of the investigation, a gas station at Eighth Street and Pedretti Avenue closed and emptied its underground storage tanks.

Investigators believe as many as 360 gallons of gasoline may have entered the sewer system. CFD became aware of the potential leak after nearby residents reported odors in their homes.

MSD began flushing the sewers with water on Dec. 24 in an attempt to dilute the spill and suppress the odor.

MSD officials advised residents living on Cappel Drive and Carnation and Hermosa avenues to take the following precautions:

• Limit ignition sources such as candles and any other flaming devices
• Run water in basement floor drains to reduce fumes and odors in the home (for drains without traps, they should be plugged to prevent odors)
• Crack windows in the home to reduce fumes