A car crashed into a gas pump at a New Hampshire gas station on Sunday, October 18, knocking the pump off its base and starting a fire.
The crash happened around 4:21 p.m. at 364 Miracle Mile in Lebanon. Firefighters were notified of the crash and learned that the damaged pump was on fire while they were en route.
By the time crews arrived, the car was no longer engulfed in flames. The gas station’s automatic fire system also activated, helping keep the fire from spreading.
Two people inside the vehicle were checked by emergency medical workers. Both declined further treatment. No other injuries were reported.
Fire Quickly Contained
According to the Lebanon Fire Department, the flames stayed near the damaged pump. The fire did not reach nearby buildings or other equipment.
Firefighters used a hose to put out the remaining flames. The department said the station’s safety equipment played an important role in controlling the fire. A store employee had also shut off the fuel supply before crews arrived. Power to the pumps had been turned off as well.
These steps helped prevent more fuel from feeding the flames. The department credited the automatic system and the employee’s quick actions with keeping the fire from becoming more serious.
Cleanup Brings Concerns
Putting out the flames was only part of the job. Firefighters also had to deal with fuel and dirty water left around the damaged pump. If these liquids reached a storm drain, they could create problems beyond the gas station.
Crews placed absorbent materials around the affected area to soak up liquids. They also used barriers called containment booms to help stop the fuel and water from spreading.
The fire department contacted the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services about possible environmental concerns.
Once crews controlled the immediate danger, they secured the area. The gas station was responsible for arranging the remaining cleanup.
Road Closed
The crash also affected drivers traveling through the area. Lebanon police closed part of Miracle Mile between Price Chopper and Poverty Lane while firefighters worked at the scene.
The closure allowed emergency crews to reach the damaged pump and handle the fire without passing traffic getting in the way.
The department’s public report did not explain why the vehicle struck the pump. It also did not identify the driver or name the gas station. The release included no information about possible traffic charges.
Safety Warning
Following the incident, the fire department reminded drivers to be careful when moving through gas stations. Drivers should watch for people walking nearby and pay attention to pumps and other equipment.
Gas stations can become dangerous when a vehicle strikes fuel-carrying equipment. Even a small crash can become serious if gasoline catches fire.
The department also shared advice for anyone who sees a fire or fuel emergency. People should move away from the danger, warn others nearby, and call 911. Firefighters warned against moving a vehicle or putting out flames when doing so could put someone in danger.