03.13.08 - Transformer fire - West Paterson, NJ
Local area businesses were without power for a brief period this afternoon when a truck traveling in front of 25 Andrews Drive caught some overhead wires and pulled down a utility pole housing a group of three power transformers.
The West Paterson Fire Department responded and stood by to assure no exposure to the nearby commercial building. When PSE&G crews arrived and were able to cut power to the units, Company 1 members then proceeded to douse the flames with a bed of foam as Company 3 stood by as a FAST assignment and for an additional water supply, should the need arise. Truck 2 remained on the scene as a precaution.
Police kept onlookers at a safe distance due to the high voltage wires on the ground and the dense, acrid smoke which so often contains dangerous PCB contaminants. Their were no injuries and the incident was under control in about an hour.
Several agencies are investigating the truck which caused the incident and the extent of ground contamination caused by the leaking transformers. Photos and story by NJMFPA member Ron Johnson.
Read MoreThe West Paterson Fire Department responded and stood by to assure no exposure to the nearby commercial building. When PSE&G crews arrived and were able to cut power to the units, Company 1 members then proceeded to douse the flames with a bed of foam as Company 3 stood by as a FAST assignment and for an additional water supply, should the need arise. Truck 2 remained on the scene as a precaution.
Police kept onlookers at a safe distance due to the high voltage wires on the ground and the dense, acrid smoke which so often contains dangerous PCB contaminants. Their were no injuries and the incident was under control in about an hour.
Several agencies are investigating the truck which caused the incident and the extent of ground contamination caused by the leaking transformers. Photos and story by NJMFPA member Ron Johnson.
