LAKEVILLE — New firefighters saw a textbook example of fire science when part of a commercial septic truck went up in flames on Bedford Street in Lakeville on Wednesday, July 24. 

A toolbox attached to the side of the truck collapsed and was rubbing up against one of the rear tires, explained Deputy Fire Chief Pam Garant. 

The situation was a perfect example of fire science in action said Garant— and a good learning opportunity for new firefighters at the scene. 

In order for a fire start, there needs to be a heat source, a fuel source and oxygen. Those three elements, referred to as the “fire triangle,” were all easily identifiable in this situation, said Garant.

The oxygen in the air, combined with the heat produced by the toolbox rubbing on the tire, and the paper products and alcoholic sanitizer in the toolbox which fueled the flames, created the perfect storm, she said. 

Fire crews were able to contain the fire quickly, and the abundance of flaming toilet paper rolls scattered all over the road made “it a sight to see,” said Garant. 

The flaming vehicle was a Mr. Cesspool Port-a-Jons septic pumping truck, equipped with a septic tank and Port-A-John supplies such as toilet paper and hand sanitizer.  

The driver, who was the only person in the vehicle, was not injured. 

Plus, the smell wasn’t too bad, Garant admitted, as the septic truck was only half full of waste. Firefighters said they were thankful that no “organic materials” were released as a result of the fire. 

Garant noted in the aftermath, the situation “could have been a lot worse.”