Lehigh Acres work trailer explosion injures 1

The Lehigh Acres Fire Control and Rescue District responded to a work trailer explosion that injured one person.

Investigators determined that the cause of the explosion was a buildup of chemical vapors inside the trailer on Gilbert Avenue on Sunday.

The vapors ignited when the trailer door opened, introducing an ignition source to the fumes.

According to Lehigh firefighters, the debris had spread outward in a 50- tp 100-foot radius.

“We always recommend to maintain the chemicals and anything that could be flammable and the original containers,” said Maury Morejon, a Firefighter paramedic with Lehigh Acres Fire Control and Rescue.

“Those original containers, usually on the back, have all the labels with safety precautions, and ways to enter information regarding how to store them in case of exposure, and reference numbers for emergency. Obviously, 911 is always also an option. [They also] provides sometimes how to store them, and it provides information as well of how to dispose of them,” said Morejon.

In an X thread written by the Lehigh Acres Fire Control and Rescue District, a flyer created by the U.S. Fire Administration advocating the proper storage of household chemicals was provided.

Storage tips include:

• Don’t mix products, as it can create deadly chemical reactions and gases and/or cause fires.
• Store products in their original containers.
• Use safety locks on shelves and cabinets when storing materials to prevent them from falling or tipping.
• Follow the instructions provided on the container of the chemical product when in use.
• If a spill occurs, clean the area and place the containers in an open, airy area. If the spill cannot be controlled, contact your local fire department.
• Aerosol cans might contain chemicals that can burn, so follow proper disposal procedures once the can has been emptied.

Firefighters also want to remind people Lee County Solid Waste has collection facilities.

If you ever need to dispose of any of these chemicals or flammable chemicals, you should contact them and see how you can dispose of them appropriately.