First snowfall of season results in multiple vehicle collisions

Chemical spill shuts down Highway 1 near Windsor

The first snowfall of the season kept Hants County firefighters busy, with three motor vehicle accidents reported within a onehour period.

The most serious of the accidents involved a commercial vehicle carrying dangerous chemicals that overturned on Highway 1 near Windsor.

Around 8:40 a.m. on Nov.

24, Hantsport firefighters were paged to their third motor vehicle accident of the day — this one located near the 900 block of Highway 1 in Mount Denson.

Paul Maynard, Hantsport’s deputy fire chief, said they set up a 50-metre perimeter around the vehicle due to the hazardous materials located inside.

“There’s four 45-gallon drums of chemical that is used to make spray foam insulation and they’ve been compromised in the vehicle,” said Maynard, noting the Kings County hazardous material support unit (hazmat) came to assist with the situation.

He estimated about 25 firefighters, plus EHS paramedics, RCMP officers and a tow truck operator were on scene.

When firefighters first arrived, Maynard said the commercial truck was on its side in the ditch and was leaking chemicals.

He said the chemicals are used in spray foam insulation but noted when they mix with other fuels, the chemicals become volatile.

The firefighters worked to get the vehicle upright and to contain the spill.

“Just a small amount of chemicals leaked out,” said Maynard.

“We got it contained and secured.”

Maynard said all members were advised to wear breathing apparatus when near the vehicle.

Highway 1 between Falmouth (Exit 7) and Hantsport (Exit 8) was closed to motorists until 11:20 a.m.

Maynard said they started their day around 8 a.m. with a minor accident on Highway 101 near Hantsport and a rollover, with a fuel leak, on the Ben Jackson Road.

“It’s our first snowfall of the year. The roads have been very treacherous.”

He said no serious injuries were reported.