Car Strikes Propane Tank Causing Leak

DERRY, NH - On August 31, 2020 at 06:34, the Derry Fire Communications Center received a 911 call reporting a vehicle had struck an in-ground propane tank behind a residence on Stark Rd. A first alarm assignment was dispatched.

Responders found a 2 1/2 story wood frame residential structure with an attached garage and could hear an audible leak from the street.

Derry Fire said crews found a black SUV on top of an in-ground propane tank with a large vapor cloud emitting from the hood area and under the vehicle. The homeowner reported the house was evacuated and estimated the tank was about 50%.

Crews immediately started vapor disbursement with a hose line as a water supply was established. Once a water supply was established larger unmanned hose streams were placed into operation.
Simultaneously, crews forced entry the residence to meter the house for propane levels, check for life hazards, and secure the utilities.

Water supply for this incident was established from a hydrant at the intersection of Kilrea Rd and Rte. 28. This required over 1200 feet of large diameter hose to be deployed.

Because the vehicle was resting on top of the valve structures of the tank, crews were required to create a hauling system made from rope and hardware to remove it.

A technician was able to complete a repair that stopped the leak. The primary residence and immediate neighbors were re-metered.

Mitigation of this incident required all on duty 16 members as well the addition of two members who responded to the request for off-duty members.

The propane tank received significant damage. The extent of damage to the vehicle has not yet been determined. No civilians or responders were injured.

Derry fire said the received assistance that was provided by the Derry Police Department, Derry Water Department and Amerigas.

Photo and information provided by Derry, NH Fire by a press release issued.