Eugene, OR – Eugene Springfield Fire responded to a significant rail car fire at the Eugene rail yard on Sunday, October 13th. Firefighters were dispatched at 5:48 PM to the scene near the intersection of Hwy 99 and Roosevelt Blvd, following reports of a large blaze in the area.
Firefighters Contain Rail Car Fire in Eugene, Prevent Major HazardPhoto byEugene Springfield Fire Department
Given the high-risk nature of rail fires, ESF deployed a comprehensive response, including four engines, two trucks, two chiefs, a Haz-Mat crew, and a medic unit. Upon arrival, crews encountered a rail car carrying treated power poles engulfed in flames.
Firefighters Contain Rail Car Fire in Eugene, Prevent Major HazardPhoto byEugene Springfield Fire Department
The fire posed an additional threat due to its proximity to a low-pressure rail car transporting denatured alcohol, a highly flammable and potentially explosive substance. Firefighters acted swiftly, using hand lines, a ground monitor, and aerial master streams to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading to the tank car. Fortunately, damage to the alcohol tank car was minimal.