Massive Blaze At SEPTA Depot; 40 Buses Burned

PHILADELPHIA — Nearly two dozen SEPTA buses were engulfed in flames Thursday morning at a depot in Northwest Philadelphia, and health officials have detected high levels of particulate matter in the area.

The Philadelphia Fire Department said the blaze started at about 6:30 a.m. at the Midvale Depot at Roberts and Pulaski avenues.

About half an hour later, the fire was raised to two alarms, but crews were able to get the blaze under control by about 8:10 a.m. Action News reports 40 decommissioned buses were caught up in the fire.

According to NBC10, the fire did not impact SEPTA service Thursday. No one was injured, Fox 29 reports.

Due to the smoke produced by the fire, the Philadelphia Department of Public Health is warning residents to avoid the Hunting Park area or try to stay inside.

Health inspectors found high levels of particulate matter in the air, as well as evidence of benzene, ethylbenzene, and carbon monoxide. The levels of all of those pollutants have been dropping since the fire was extinguished, and officials expect they will continue to drop.

Residents in the area should take precautions to avoid unnecessary exposure to smoke.

The Health Department recommends doing the following to protect yourself and your family from poor air quality:

• Avoid going outdoors as much as possible.
• If you must go outside, avoid excessive activity, such as jogging or running, and wear a mask, if available.
• Close all windows and doors to minimize air pollution in your home.
• Recirculate air with fans to avoid bringing more air pollution into your home.

The air may be potentially hazardous for sensitive groups, including children, elderly people, people who are pregnant, and those with respiratory diseases or heart conditions.

Residents nearby should avoid areas of high congestion and where air pollution may be high, such as main streets or highways, areas with low circulation.

People with underlying illnesses should monitor for symptoms, including trouble breathing, nausea, and dizziness. If these symptoms occur, seek medical attention as soon as possible.