Firefighters in Kwara State on Saturday prevented what could have been a major disaster in Ilorin after successfully averting an explosion involving a petrol tanker carrying 45,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).
The incident occurred at about 9:40 a.m. at Madi Junction along the Oko-Olowo Expressway in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital.
In a statement issued by the spokesperson of the Kwara State Fire Service, Hassan Adekunle, the agency said the tanker developed a mechanical fault while transporting the petroleum product.
According to the statement, the situation became more dangerous when the tanker detached from the truck while the driver was attempting to repair the faulty component, causing the highly flammable fuel to leak and creating a serious fire risk.
“It was while the driver was attempting to repair the affected part that the tank detached from the vehicle, resulting in the leakage of petroleum and posing a significant fire hazard,” Adekunle said.
He explained that firefighters responded immediately by securing the scene and remaining on standby throughout the emergency operation while the leaking fuel was safely transferred into another tanker.
“Our firefighters immediately secured the area and remained on standby throughout the operation to ensure strict compliance with all safety measures.
“The emergency response team provided continuous fire protection while the petroleum was carefully transferred from the affected tanker to another tanker, preventing any possible ignition or escalation of the incident,” he added.
Adekunle confirmed that the operation was concluded successfully without any fire outbreak, injuries, or loss of life.
Commending the swift response of the firefighters, the Director of the Kwara State Fire Service, Alabi Muhammed, praised their professionalism, saying their timely intervention prevented what could have resulted in a major tragedy.
“I commend our firefighters for their professionalism and prompt response, which prevented what could have been a major disaster.
“I also urge tanker operators and motorists to ensure their vehicles are properly maintained and to notify emergency responders immediately whenever petroleum-related emergencies occur. Prompt reporting is essential to safeguarding lives, property and the environment,” Alabi said.
ADEOLA KUNLE
No comments:
Post a Comment