Redlands Firefighters responded to an overturned big rig and fuel spill in the 400 block of Tennessee Street at about 11 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 14.
Crews arrived to find the overturned big rig gas truck carrying a load of unleaded gas and diesel fuel. Several other cars parked on the street and in the parking lot of La-Z-Boy furniture factory were also damaged.
The semi-truck driver was headed south on Tennessee Street when he collided with a parked car, forcing the car onto the parkway, and shearing a water valve responsible for supplying water to local businesses’ fire protection systems. The truck then overturned and came to rest partially on top of other vehicles in the parking lot.
Redlands Fire Department was able to stop the flow of hazardous fuel into the street and nearby waterway. The total amount of fuel contaminants released from the truck is estimated to be less than 100 gallons.
Redlands Fire Hazmat technicians worked closely with the San Manuel Fire Department Hazardous Materials Team to mitigate the flow of contaminants and off-load the remaining 2,500 to 3,000 gallons of fuel into trucks brought in. The semi was then righted and towed away.
The operations were very effective and no further contamination occurred during the removal and towing process of the truck. The State Department of Fish and Game responded to the scene to investigate the water way and contamination. Further investigation is under way to determine any further action.
The Redlands Police Department responded for the road closure and accident investigation. Crews from the City’s Quality of Life and Municipal Utilities and Engineering Department also responded to make emergency repairs to the water infrastructure and provide absorbent dirt.
The driver of the big rig was transported to the local trauma center for injuries. The accident is still under investigation. Tennessee Street was closed for more than 12 hours.