Quick Thinking Prevents Disaster: Garbage Truck Catches Fire in Ridgewood

photo courtesy of Boyd Loving

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

RIDGEWOOD, N.J. — Local heroism and rapid decision-making prevented a major emergency in Ridgewood when a sanitation truck collecting bulk refuse suddenly caught fire.

The truck driver noticed heavy smoke billowing from the vehicle while on route. Acting swiftly to avoid catastrophic damage or a street-level disaster, the driver pulled into the Graydon Pool parking lot, where the burning contents were safely dumped onto open pavement.

Fast Response from Local Emergency Crews

Both the Ridgewood Fire Department and Ridgewood Police Department arrived on the scene promptly to manage the incident, contain the flames, and secure the surrounding area.

Thanks to the extraordinary situational awareness and quick thinking of the sanitation crew, no injuries were reported, and potential damage to nearby residential structures or the vehicle itself was minimized.

The exact cause of the fire remains under investigation.

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A Critical Safety Reminder for Ridgewood Residents

This event serves as a stark reminder of the hazards involved in municipal solid waste collection. Disposing of improper or volatile items in regular trash or bulk pickup can endanger the lives of sanitation workers, first responders, and community members.

To help keep our community and sanitation crews safe, please ensure you NEVER place the following items in bulk refuse collections:

• Batteries: Lithium-ion batteries (found in e-bikes, laptops, power tools, and toys) are a leading cause of truck fires.

• Flammables & Chemicals: Household chemicals, propane tanks, paint thinners, and lighter fluid.

• Hot Ashes or Charcoal: Always ensure fireplace or grill embers are completely extinguished and cooled for several days before disposal.

• Pressurized Cans: Aerosol cans containing flammable propellant.

The Village of Ridgewood extends its deepest appreciation to our sanitation crew, fire department, and police force for their ongoing dedication to public safety!

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