Fire crews worked through the night to extinguish a significant fire at the Modern Landfill in Niagara County, which began around midnight. The blaze was finally brought under control around 6am on Saturday. The incident prompted a response from multiple fire companies including Lewiston Fire Company No. 1 and the Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station.
The fire originated from a large pile of rubber tire chunks at the landfill located on Pletcher Road in the Town of Lewiston. According to a spokesperson for Modern Disposal Services, the landfill contains municipal solid waste but no hazardous materials. This is important as it means there was no danger to the public.
Despite the absence of hazardous waste, firefighters faced several challenges while battling the blaze. The exposure of a methane pipe, the presence of two parked bulldozers at risk of catching fire, and 15-mph winds complicated their efforts.
The fire was contained to the pile of rubber tire chunks and the cause of the fire remains under investigation. Modern Disposal Services reached out to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) for further assistance. A DEC spokesperson confirmed that they are in contact with landfill operators and will continue to monitor the situation.
No firefighters were injured during the incident. However, one landfill employee required treatment and was later released.
Firefighters Battle Overnight Blaze at Niagara County Landfill