A coordinated effort by the Morganville Fire Department prevented a debris fire from turning into a major environmental crisis at a Tennent Road auto salvage yard on the afternoon of April 16.

First responders were dispatched at about 4:30 p.m. and found a pile of burning debris and several vehicles engulfed in flames. Because of the nature of the site, the fire chief immediately called for a large water-supply response.

Crews contained the main body of the fire in under 20 minutes.

Because salvage yards often contain oils, fuels and other chemicals, the scene was held for 2.5 hours. Firefighters worked with a hazmat team to address concerns about water runoff and to make sure no toxic materials entered the surrounding soil or water supply.

The Morganville Fire Department used the successful operation as a reminder of the importance of volunteer dedication.