The fire broke out around 11:30 a.m. The driver and cleaner of the truck escaped unharmed by jumping out of the vehicle. Fire fighters and police rushed to the spot and brought the fire under control after about an hour.
The fire caused a traffic jam on the highway for several hours. The truck was totally damaged in the fire.The reason behind the fire is still unknown. However, it is suspected that the fire may have been caused by an electrical short circuit.
This is the second incident of a truck catching fire on NH-16 in Visakhapatnam in the past few weeks. On July 1, 2023, a lorry carrying wires caught fire at Regupalem junction on NH-16. The driver and cleaner of the lorry also escaped unharmed in that incident.
The fire department has advised truck drivers to be careful and to take all necessary safety precautions to prevent such incidents from happening in the future.
Here are some safety precautions that truck drivers can take to prevent fires:
1)Regularly inspect the truck for any signs of wear and tear, especially electrical wiring. This includes checking for frayed wires, loose connections, and other potential hazards.
2)Make sure that the truck is properly maintained and that all safety equipment is in good working order. This includes having a fire extinguisher on board and knowing how to use it.
3)Do not overload the truck.
Overloading can put stress on the truck's electrical system, which can increase the risk of fire.
4)Avoid driving in hazardous conditions, such as high winds or dust storms.These conditions can increase the risk of fire, as they can make it difficult to see and control the truck.
5)Be aware of the signs of a fire and know how to react quickly if one starts.The signs of a fire include smoke, flames, and heat. If you see any of these signs, pull over to the side of the road and call 911.
6)Avoid smoking while driving.Smoking while driving can increase the risk of fire, as it can cause cigarettes to fall into the cab or onto the floor.
7)Do not leave the truck unattended while it is running.
If you need to leave the truck, turn it off and make sure that it is properly extinguished.
8)Report any potential fire hazards to the appropriate authorities. This includes things like loose wires, faulty electrical components, and leaking fuel tanks.
By following these safety precautions, truck drivers can help to keep themselves and others safe from fire.
