Quick Response by MCFR Averts Disaster at Ocala Gas Station

Photo byMarion County Fire Rescue

By Staff Writer | iSkyCreations - News & Media (ISC News & Media)
Published March 20th, 2024

OCALA, FL – A potential catastrophe was narrowly avoided early on the morning of March 20, 2024, thanks to the swift and effective response of the Marion County Fire Rescue (MCFR) team. Firefighters were called to a BP Gas Station on 7947 West Highway 40 in Ocala following multiple 911 reports of a white semi-tractor trailer ablaze, dangerously situated underneath power lines and close to gas pumps.

Photo byMarion County Fire Rescue

Photo byMarion County Fire Rescue

Photo byMarion County Fire Rescue

Photo byMarion County Fire Rescue

Photo byMarion County Fire Rescue

Photo byMarion County Fire Rescue

Photo byMarion County Fire Rescue

Photo byMarion County Fire Rescue

The first MCFR unit, from Meadowood Farms Station #12, arrived at the scene at approximately 7:36 a.m. and quickly established West Highway 40 command. Upon assessment, firefighters found the wheels of the tractor trailer engulfed in flames, with the fire having spread inside the trailer, which was loaded with soft drinks and other liquid products.

Thanks to the presence of a fire hydrant on-site, the MCFR team managed to bring the fire under control within a mere three minutes of their arrival. Battalion Chief 5, who arrived on the scene shortly after the initial unit, assumed command and oversaw the successful extinguishing of the fire. Engine 12’s crew then carried out mop-up operations to ensure the safety of the area and prevent any further fire outbreaks.

The quick containment of the fire prevented what could have been a major disaster, considering the proximity of the burning vehicle to both gas pumps and power lines. This incident highlights the importance of the rapid response capabilities of fire rescue services and the critical role they play in community safety.

Photo byiSkyCreations - News & Media