Flash Explosion Sends Drum Containing Methanol 20 Feet, Ignites Fire

A flash explosion sent a 55-gallon drum containing methanol 20 feet and ignited a brush fire at a South Windsor business Monday morning.

Fortunately, there were no injuries, according to fire officials.

Emergency crews were dispatched to a Glendale Road business around 8:30 a.m. on the report of a fire involving hazardous material.

Upon the fire department’s arrival, the fire had extended from a 55-gallon drum to nearby debris and brush.

Firefighters quickly extinguished the fire.

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Fire officials determined that an employee was transferring ‘methanol’ from a 55-gallon drum to a smaller container via a small electric pump. During the transfer, for undetermined reason, a flash explosion occurred, igniting the 55 gallon drum and shooting the drum approx. 20’ where it was stopped by a fence and igniting the nearby debris and brush.

The employee was not injured.

The fire department responded with two Engine Companies, one Rescue Company, Incident Commander and approximately 15 members, according to a press release. Additionally, supporting the SWFD were South Windsor Police Department, SW Fire Marshal’s Office and CT DEEP.

CT DEEP responded and mitigating the removal of the damaged drum. The incident is being investigated by the SW Fire Marshal’s Office.

The business was reoccupied and remained open. There was no other hazards nor reason for evacuation, according to the press release.

Photo via South Windsor Fire Department