Residents were evacuated from two apartment buildings Thursday after contractors severed a gas line.

An Ontario Fire Department engine initially responded about noon to the complex at 1822 N. Vineyard Ave. for the report of a natural gas leak.

When firefighters arrived, they found an inch-wide, underground gas line had been cut by workers in the area.

Based on the “high density housing and the amount of gas escaping,” three additional fire engines and a HAZMAT rescue team were called, Ontario fire Captain Scot Roeber said.

Eight people from two different apartment buildings near the leak were removed from the structures while firefighters worked.

The additional units were released within 20 minutes and firefighters wrapped up by 2:30 p.m.

Firefighters performed tests for combustible gas and oxygen deficiency and when it was determined safe, residents were allowed back in the buildings, Roeber said.

There were no injuries reported and no property damage.

The right lane of northbound Vineyard was closed for less than 10 minutes while firefighters worked, Roeber said.

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