On Saturday evening, 17 October, emergency services intervened on Lubańska Street in Bolesławiec following an oil-based substance spill on the road. Several fire service units and police were sent to the scene. This type of contamination can pose a serious hazard to drivers.
The incident occurred before 10:00 p.m. The oil-based substance spill was located on Lubańska Street. Firefighters began operations to neutralize it and secure the hazardous area. The operation ended at around 11:00 p.m.
One of our readers sent us a recording showing the firefighters’ actions. Thank you for the submitted material.
Why are oil-based substance spills dangerous?
Oil, fuel or another oil-based substance spilled on the road can significantly reduce tire grip on the surface. In such conditions, a driver may lose control of the vehicle, especially while braking, turning sharply or negotiating a bend.
The hazard increases when the surface is wet. Water can spread the contamination, while the slippery layer on the asphalt makes effective braking more difficult. This can be particularly dangerous for motorcyclists and cyclists, who lose their balance more easily on a slippery surface and may fall.
An oil-based substance spill can lead to a skid, a collision with another vehicle, running off the road and, consequently, a serious accident. The danger is not always immediately visible, so drivers should exercise particular caution when they notice suspicious marks on the road.
If you notice a spilled substance that may endanger road users, slow down, avoid sudden maneuvers and notify the emergency services. Do not attempt to remove an unknown substance from the road yourself.