HTFD Firefighters faced challenging conditions while responding to a vehicle fire on Interstate 81. The vehicle, a Passenger Van was carrying tires, and was fully engulfed in flames when crews arrived on scene.

Upon arrival, firefighters quickly assessed the situation and identified the presence of multiple hazards, including a ruptured fuel tank and the large quantity of tires inside the vehicle. The tires fueled the fire’s intensity, creating thick smoke and extremely high temperatures, while the fuel tank rupture posed an additional threat of spreading the fire even further.

With limited access to a nearby water supply, mutual aid tankers from Laurel Run Fire Department and Wright Township Fire Department were called in to bring additional water to the scene. The situation required close coordination and a highly strategic approach, as firefighters worked to prevent the fire from spreading while also safeguarding the surrounding environment.

Crews used an array of techniques, to suppress the fire. The extreme heat, coupled with the tires and ruptured fuel tank, created difficult conditions that prolonged firefighting efforts. After over an hour of dedicated work, firefighters successfully extinguished the fire, ensuring that it was completely out and safe for further inspection.

While the vehicle sustained significant damage, no injuries were reported, and the fire was contained to the vehicle and its contents. This fire highlights the importance of mutual aid and coordination among neighboring fire departments, as well as the need for specialized firefighting tactics when dealing with hazardous materials such as tires and fuel.