Drivers urged to use caution this holiday

VALLEY TOWNSHIP, MONTOUR COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — The holiday travel rush is in full swing. Travel experts expect record numbers of people to hit the nation’s highways.

Law enforcement and first responders from across Northeastern Pennsylvania are urging drivers to use caution.

28/22 News spoke to a fire chief who knows all too well how a good day on the highway can turn tragic.

“It was definitely something I’ve never experienced. I’m sure a lot of people driving by have never experienced it as well,” said Valley Township Fire Department Chief Matthew Gum.

Chief Gum is talking about the crash last week of a truck carrying propane. Interstate 80 was shut down between the Buckhorn and Danville exits for much of the day.

Two people suffered minor injuries and the propane was burned off.

“What they did was we put water into the tank and filled the tank up pretty much pushed the liquid propane out of the truck into one of their hoses and we flared it off,” Chief Gum explained.

While the cause of the crash is still under investigation, Chief Gum says it shows how quickly things can change for the worse, especially on the interstates.

“When you’re out there and the road is not closed yet, traffic is still going by, it’s a whole different ball game as far as potential dangers?” 28/22 I-Team Reporter Andy Mehalshick asked.

“Absolutely yes. Until we can secure the scene with cones and fire trucks, people are still going at the full rate of speed until they start seeing emergency lights,” Chief Gum replied.

He urges drivers to follow the speed limit and if they do come upon a crash.

“Give any direction that they tell you. Make sure you follow it. Slow down, try not to look at the crash because that could cause a secondary crash,” Chief Gum added.

The Valley Township Fire Department responds to dozens of calls on Interstate 80 each year and Chief Gum says there is no room for carelessness.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PAhomepage.com.