***PRESS RELEASE***
Effingham, Il (Via Watson, Il) – On 01/24/2018 at approximately 0451 hours, the Watson Fire Protection District was dispatched to Interstate 57 northbound at milepost 154 for a semi on fire.
The caller was the driver of the semi and he advised flames were showing from the semi-tractor.
The first arriving Engine Company reported heavy fire involvement to the rear of the tractor.
The driver of the semi was able to disconnect from the trailer prior to arrival of fire personnel.
Fire crews were able to quickly knock down the fire, preventing it from extending into the sleeper berth.
Fire damage was contained to the right, rear tires and a stack of lumber stored on the crosswalk behind the sleeper berth.
The origin of the fire was in the right, rear tire area, however, due to the damage the cause of the fire is undetermined.
The tractor and trailer were later removed from the scene by a local tow agency.
Watson FPD units were on scene for approximately 35 minutes. Edgewood Bi-County Fire Protection District was initially requested to the scene with a Tender, however they were disregarded while en route once the fire was knocked down.
The Effingham County Sheriff’s Office assisted with traffic control during the incident.
No injuries to any firefighters or civilians.
Press Release courtesy of Watson Fire Protection District
