Hamilton Store Experiences Refrigerant Leak, Firefighters Called to the Scene
Hamilton Township Fire Department responded to a call reporting a smoke condition in BJ’s Wholesale Club on Marketplace Boulevard at around 6:00 p.m. on May 20, 2023. Promptly following the report, the building was evacuated as per standard protocol.
Upon arriving at the location, firefighters began investigating the cause of the apparent smoke condition. After a thorough inspection, it was discovered that a large refrigeration unit in the store was leaking coolant, prompting further action to be taken.
At this point, the Trenton Fire Department Hazardous Materials Team was called to the scene, along with PSE&G and the Township Fire Marshal. Positive pressure ventilation fans were set up to dispel the refrigerant, while the hazardous materials technicians used monitoring equipment to ensure safe levels for all staff and emergency responders involved.
Around 8:00 p.m. the Trenton Fire Department Hazardous Materials Team was cleared to leave the scene. However, several Hamilton firefighters remained behind to continue using fans to completely clear the store of any remaining refrigerant, while a repair technician was dispatched to make necessary repairs to the cooling system.
Finally, when all levels were declared safe, firefighters cleared the scene entirely, allowing the store to resume normal operations. Thankfully, there were no injuries reported as a result of the coolant leak.
Even though this situation proved to be a minor inconvenience for the store’s employees and customers, it serves as a reminder of the importance of proper protocol and safety measures in emergency situations. Being prepared and having trained personnel available to respond quickly and effectively to such incidents is of utmost importance, and it speaks volumes of the Hamilton Township Fire Department’s capabilities.
