Firefighters from the Westville Area Fire Protection District were among several agencies called to assist with a significant vehicle fire on Interstate 74 Tuesday afternoon after two semi-tractor trailers caught fire near mile marker 206.
According to officials, the department was dispatched shortly before 1:00 p.m. by Vermilion County 911 through the Mutual Aid Box Alarm System (MABAS) Illinois Division 40. The request for assistance came from Oakwood Fire Command, which was coordinating the emergency response to the incident on the interstate.
Westville firefighters responded to the scene with Engine 8E2, providing both firefighting foam and additional personnel to support suppression efforts. Foam is often used in large vehicle fires involving fuel and other flammable materials, helping firefighters quickly control flames and prevent the fire from spreading.
While crews were deployed to the interstate, the department also maintained operational readiness by assigning personnel to standby duty at Station 8S1. This precaution ensured that emergency resources remained available to respond to any secondary incidents that might have occurred within the district while firefighters were assisting at the highway scene.
Large commercial vehicle fires can present significant challenges for emergency responders due to the size of the vehicles, fuel loads, and potential hazards associated with cargo. Coordinated efforts among multiple agencies are often necessary to bring such incidents under control safely and efficiently.
Although details regarding the cause of the fire and the extent of damage to the semi-tractor trailers have not yet been released, officials confirmed that Westville personnel completed their assigned duties without any reported injuries or complications.
Following the successful operation, all Westville units returned to their stations without incident. The response highlights the importance of mutual aid partnerships throughout the region, allowing departments to share resources, personnel, and specialized equipment during large-scale emergencies.
Authorities have not released additional information regarding the fire investigation, and updates may be provided as more details become available.