Brave firefighters prevent catastrophe after fuel truck collides at gas station in Kwara

A potentially catastrophic fire was narrowly avoided in Ilorin, Kwara State, on Monday, thanks to the swift response of firefighters to an accident involving a 45,000-litre petrol tanker at a filling station.

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The incident occurred at approximately 6:02 a.m. at YTK Filling Station, located opposite the Youth Camp in the Apata area of Eyenkorin, according to reports.

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Hassan Adekunle, the spokesman for the Kwara State Fire Service, revealed that the tanker, with registration number ARP 51 XB, was involved in the accident after the driver lost control while attempting to reposition the vehicle within the station's premises.

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As a result, the tanker collided with the station's perimeter fence, causing the compartment carrying Premium Motor Spirit, commonly known as petrol, to detach from the truck, Adekunle explained.

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Firefighters promptly secured the area and initiated cooling and dampening operations to prevent the highly flammable product from igniting, according to Adekunle.

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Adekunle described the scene, stating that the vehicle struck the station's perimeter fence, causing the tanker compartment containing the PMS to detach from the truck, and upon arrival, firefighters swiftly secured the scene and commenced intensive cooling and dampening operations.

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Their prompt intervention ensured that the highly flammable product did not ignite despite the dangerous circumstances, and the spilled fuel was subsequently and safely siphoned into another empty tanker under the close supervision of the fire service.

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The operation was brought to a successful conclusion without any loss of life, injury, or damage by fire, Adekunle said.

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Chief Fire Officer Alabi Muhammed commended the emergency responders for their professionalism and timely action, noting that their intervention prevented what could have turned into a major catastrophe.

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Muhammed also advised tanker drivers and petroleum marketers to adhere strictly to established safety procedures during the transportation, parking, and handling of petroleum products, emphasizing that caution remains the best way to prevent avoidable emergencies.

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Road accidents involving petroleum tankers have remained a major safety concern in Nigeria, often resulting in devastating fires, loss of lives, and destruction of property.

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Fire authorities have repeatedly urged tanker operators to comply with safety regulations and ensure proper handling of flammable products to reduce the risk of such incidents.