A TRUCK carrying frozen goods reversed into a fire hydrant in Assembly Drive, Tullamarine, last Wednesday morning, creating a 30 metre water jet on one of the area’s busiest industrial roads.
Fire station officer Grant Adams said the water shooting up on to the overhead power lines made a precarious situation.
“If the power lines fell down, they would’ve electrified the area where they landed,†Mr Adams said. “This was especially dangerous considering the amount of water on the ground and the people standing around it.â€
As overhead power lines began to spark, the truck driver took initiative by reversing his vehicle back over the water jet. In doing so, he blocked the water from reaching the power lines and averted the potential for electrical hazard.
City West Water arrived at the scene within 15 minutes to turn off the mains.
Anne Barker, managing director of City West Water, said damaged fire hydrants are a top priority for repair.
“Our crew’s quick response time and turning the water off as soon as possible greatly reduced the amount of water which might have been lost,†Ms Barker said.
“Last summer we changed the way we respond to major bursts and now turn the water supply off as soon as possible, unless there is a threat to public safety or essential services. The new procedure has saved an estimated 64 million litres of water to date.â€
Police barred traffic from Tullamarine Park Drive. No one was injured in the incident.
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