Fire Log: Toxic Chemicals Close Rest Area

The Department of Environmental Protection called the Darien Fire Department to the I95 north service area Monday evening, when a barrel of toxic and highly flammable chemicals ruptured aboard a parked tractor trailer.

"There are a lot of Hazmat scenes along the interstates throughout the U.S. due to the heavy transportation of chemicals on 18-wheelers, but there are very strict rules and regulations for this type of transportation," said Chief Rick Weatherstone.

The ruptured barrel was one of about two dozen found in the vehicle. In the event the spill ignited, Darien firefighters were at the ready, said Weatherstone.

"To battle the fumes we wear our SCBA—self contained breathing apparatus—and depending on the chemical, a specific level Hazmat suit," he said.

With help from a clean up company, Darien Fire closed and secured the service area according to published guidelines. The team effort took five hours.

Specialized clean-up crews, like those called on Monday evening, respond to incidents involving specific chemicals, said Weatherstone.

Details have yet to be publicized. The incident remains under investigation by the DEP and police.