Hazardous Materials Incident with Burn Victim in the Borough by Assistant Chief Evan Taylor April 22, 2009
On Saturday April 18, Valley Forge Crews were alerted to assist Phoenixville Fire Department with a Haz-Mat incident at the Borough Sewer Authority. Just before lunch, the Phoenixville crews were dispatched to assist a plant worker with chemical burns. Upon their arrival, PFD crews saw what appeared to be a chemical cloud hanging over the plant. Crews immediately recognized the situation and didn't want to put further people in harm. Phoenixville Police transported the burn patient to Phoenixville hospital and then to an awaiting helicopter.
The immediate area near the incident was evacuated and the scene was secured until the Chester County Hazardous Materials Team arrived. After the all clear was given, crews were allowed in to survey the scene and turn off the gases and electric in the building.
Valley Forge crews from Engine 68-2, Engine 68-5, Rescue 68 and 68 Fire Police assisted with man power, ventilation and traffic control. After approximately 3 hours Valley Forge firefighters were released from the scene and returned to station. A special thanks to King of Prussia Fire Company for covering our response area while we were on scene.
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