Cornwall Fire & Rescue Service Newsdesk

A38 Tideford at 13/12/2012 19:24

At 1855hrs the Fire Service was called to a fuel tanker that was reported to have become disengaged from a recovery vehicle and was leaking. Three crews from Saltash which includes an Enviromental Support Vehicle and a Rescue Tender from Bodmin are on scene. On arrival, one articulated fuel tanker detached from the cab unit. A considerable amount of fuel is leaking which the Fire Service is in the process of stemming. The Environment Agency has been informed and will be attending. The Police have closed the A38. Update 2150hrs: The Fire Service is still in attendance at this time, making the scene safe and assisting the other agencies in the clear up. It is believed that up to 7500litres of unleaded petrol may be involved. Stocks of fire fighting foam and specialist equipment have been sent by Devon Fire and Rescue Service as a precautionary measure. Crews are now awaiting the arrival of the tanker company's specialist recovery team. Update 0350hrs 14/12
Good progress is being made. The Specialist Team is in attendance and is in the process of decanting the fuel from the stricken tanker into containers whxih is now known to be in the region of 3500 - 4000 litres. The Fire Service is remaining in attendance ensuring the scene is safe. This operation is expected to continue for a considerable period. Update 0625hrs Good progress has been made and decanting is now complete. The Fire Service is now in the process of ventilating the tanker to disperse fumes.
Update 1430 The vehicle has been righted and made safe, all Fire and Rescue Service have now left the scene. The incident has been handed over to Devon and Cornwall Police.