Thursday, June 9, 2011 I am reporting this from a fire investigator position. Lakewood E-3 responded to a report of a car fire in an apartment complex parking lot. Upon arrival E-3 found a working car fire and deployed a trash line to extinguish the fire. While units were advancing the hose line, they heard two separate explosions. Post incident analysis showed the one explosion was from the right front tire. The second explosion and possible life threatening danger was from the hood support piston. It was discovered by a report that a pedestrian was struck in the leg. A measurement revealed the projectile traveled 60ft before striking the victim. A surveillance tape was reviewed and we were unable to see it exit the vehicle due to the speed of the cylinder. The cylinder was located and appeared intact. It looked like medal rod 12" long ½” in diameter. This could have shot right thru while they were working at the front corner of the vehicle. It was mentioned from the hose team that they heard the noise but couldn’t identify it. The cylinder exited the vehicle when they were working close to the car. This could have been a deadly experience when trying to get the hood unlatched.
When approaching a car fire be aware that there are a number of potential projectiles. Approaching the car from a 45deg is safer. In addition keeping pedestrians at a safe distance and away from the front area will reduce the chance of an injury.