Lichfield Lorry Trailer Fire 'Exploded Like Several Bombs Going Off'
Fire crews rushed to the scene of a dramatic lorry trailer blaze in Lichfield that witnesses described as exploding like several bombs going off. The incident occurred on Common Lane at approximately 9:45 PM on Monday, February 9, sparking a significant emergency response.
Witness Accounts and Emergency Response
A witness reported hearing a loud explosion, stating, "A lorry exploded. It sounded like several bombs going off." Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service dispatched four appliances to tackle the fire, which involved a double-decker trailer that was not attached to its HGV cab at the time.
Firefighters used a main jet and a hose reel jet to extinguish the flames, with colleagues from Staffordshire Police assisting in traffic management to ensure safety in the area. Despite the intensity of the blaze, there were no reports of injuries, providing a relief amidst the chaotic scene.
Overnight Operations and Cause Determination
Crews remained at the site overnight to dampen down any hotspots, finally leaving at around 5 AM on Tuesday, February 10. After investigation, the fire was deemed to have been caused accidentally, though specific details on the ignition source were not disclosed in the initial reports.
A spokeswoman for Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service confirmed, "Firefighters extinguished a large trailer fire in Lichfield. At around 9:45 PM on Monday, crews were called to Common Lane following reports of a vehicle fire." She emphasized that the trailer was well alight upon arrival but highlighted the successful containment efforts.
This incident underscores the swift action of emergency services in handling potentially hazardous situations, ensuring public safety in the Lichfield community.
