SURREY, B.C. — A barge loaded with crushed vehicles is burning in the Fraser River off Surrey, B.C., sending up a towering plume of acrid smoke that is visible over much of Metro Vancouver
The blaze broke out Friday morning in the fully loaded, 76-metre barge as it was moored just north of the Pattullo Bridge.
A fireboat from Vancouver was called because firefighters in Surrey could not attack the worst of the flames near the front of the vessel, farthest from shore.
When you drive into work for shift change and this is what you see ....... most would turn around but we drive a little faster ! As reported by every media outlet Surrey crews are battling this massive fire. Stay safe on the front lines! pic.twitter.com/aLKC1BLlMv
— Surrey Fire Fighters (@Local1271) August 10, 2018
Officials say the fire has worked its way deep into the load of vehicles, and the thick, black smoke represents the burning oil, tires, seats, dashboards and other materials in the crushed vehicles.
The fire was expected to burn much of the day because upper levels of the load needed to be removed to be able to get water on the fire below.
Update: fire boat now on scene near Pattullo Bridge where a barge full of crushed cars is burning. Now they’re fighting the fire from 2 sides. Watch @CTVMorningLive for my live updates. pic.twitter.com/IyJCyPkQpy
— Nafeesa Karim (@nafeesakarim) August 10, 2018
A tweet from Metro Vancouver regional district says anyone affected by the considerable smoke should stay indoors, close all windows and follow the directions of a health-care provider if symptoms are experienced. (News1130, CKNW)
Firefighters are attacking a massive blaze that broke out on a barge full of crushed cars on the Fraser River Friday morning: https://t.co/BXAV0P82uo pic.twitter.com/UJ4TiD1K3W
— CTV Vancouver (@CTVVancouver) August 10, 2018
Surrey barge fire producing considerable smoke. If you encounter smoke, seek shelter inside, close windows and doors, reduce indoor pollution sources. If you experience symptoms follow the advice of your healthcare provider. #AirQuality https://t.co/qyfTAdCeW5
— Metro Vancouver (@MetroVancouver) August 10, 2018
