Engine 43 and Mutual Aid Battle Tractor Trailer Fire Southbound on I-476
 
By Watch Desk
August 20, 2021
 

Last evening at approximately 21:04 hours your Plymouth Fire Company No. 1 (Montco 43) volunteers were dispatched to mile marker 19.5 Southbound on I-476 (Blue Route) for the report of a vehicle on fire. The Montgomery County 911 center advised of multiple callers reporting a tractor trailer on fire.

Chief 43 arrived to find the trailer of an 18 wheeler with fire showing from the rear. The tractor portion of the vehicle thankfully had already been detached and it was reported the trailer was filled with large rolls of paper products.

Engine 43 with a crew of 6 responded and upon their arrival the crew pulled two 1 ¾" hoselines from the front bumper to begin attacking the fire. Rescue 43 also made the response to assist with firefighter rehab and scene lighting.

With the heavy volume of fire command requested additional engines and manpower from the Harmonville Fire Company No.1 and the George Clay Fire Company - Station 39 to assist at the scene. Engine and Squad 44 as well as Squad 39 made the response with their apparatus shuttling water into Engine 43 multiple times and their crews assisting with extinguishment.

Crews worked together for over an hour and half before command placed the incident under control. In all, over 3000 gallons of water would end up being shuttled to ensure full extinguishment. The scene was then turned over to the PA State Police and to EVB Towing. There were no injuries reported to civilians or first responders. Station 43 was clear and available just before midnight.

A HUGE thank you to our mutual aid partners for their quick response. Incredible teamwork and a job well done to all on scene