Commuters in the area of the Palisades Interstate Parkway's exit 10 interchange at Middletown Rd. were subject to delays this morning as a working car fire briefly shut down Middletown Rd. in both directions.

At 7:43am on Wednesday morning, Nanuet FD was alerted to respond to a reported car fire at the intersection of Middletown Rd., and West Clarkstown Rd. The busy intersection of Middletown Rd., West Clarkstown Rd., Germonds Rd., and the Palisades Interstate Parkway sees thousands of cars pass through during a typical morning commute.

Arriving on scene moments later, Asst. Chief BJ Ready (8-3) confirmed that all occupants were out of the silver sedan, which was fully involved. Crews from first responding 8-EQ used a pre-connected 1 3/4" handline to knock back the majority of the flames. During the course of the extinguishment, the vehicle's fuel tank ruptured, causing an immense ball of flame and smoke. The occupant, who was uninjured, confirmed that the vehicle's fuel tank had been completely full at the time.

Nanuet FD's first responding apparatus (8-EQ) is specially equipped with an on board foam system to deal with instances where burning liquids and fuels escape a vehicle's fuel tank. Chief Todd Giraudin (8-1) utilized a nearby fire hydrant to secure a water supply, and quickly switched the apparatus to begin flowing the foam additive.

The fire was brought under control and completely extinguished with a half hour.

"It's amazing the dedication these volunteers have to our community" one passing motorist stopped to remark. "One moment they're going about their day, and the next they're suited up and risking their lives to serve their neighbors."

Both roads were opened slightly before 9:00am.