Aurora Fire Rescue (AFR) responded to a semi-trailer fire on southbound E-470 near 38th Avenue at 10:31 AM. AFR's Engine 12 and an AFR medical supervisor (EMS-1) were the first units to arrive at the scene. Upon arrival, crews encountered a multi-purpose semi-trailer carrying wood chips that was fully engulfed in flames.
The semi-trailer driver had safely exited the vehicle and reported that a flat tire had prompted him to pull over. Shortly after, he observed his wheel on fire. Engine 12 initiated an immediate fire attack using the limited water available in their tank. Due to the remote location and the absence of nearby hydrants, AFR relied on water tenders to establish a sufficient water supply for the firefighting operation.
AFR's hazardous materials team was deployed to manage the safe offloading of the semi's diesel tank, which had an approximate capacity of 100 gallons. Crews emptied the tank and offloaded approximately 50 gallons of diesel without incident.
In total, 17 units responded, including mutual aid from Sable Altura Fire Rescue, E-470 personnel, State Patrol, and the Aurora Police Department. No injuries were reported.
E-470 personnel are leading the clean-up efforts in the affected area. As of now, the number 1 and 2 southbound lanes remain open. All southbound lanes will reopen upon the completion of clean-up operations.
AFR would like to remind everyone how to keep themselves safe while driving.
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Always buckle up—seatbelts save lives.
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Adjust your driving for conditions like rain, snow, or ice.
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Avoid driving through flooded areas; water depth and speed can be deceptive.
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Service your vehicle regularly and check tires, oil, and systems before trips. Low tire pressure can lead to dangerous blowouts.
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Leave extra space between vehicles and avoid cruise control in wet conditions.
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Give pedestrians and cyclists adequate room on the road.
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Safely pull over to the right for approaching emergency vehicles.
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Slow down and provide extra space near roadside emergency scenes.