Truck saved after catching fire twice in Death Valley

LAS VEGAS (KSNV) — A tractor-trailer was saved after catching on fire twice, thanks to the help of anoff-duty National Park Service employee.

Theemployee was driving home on Thursday when she noticed flames under the semitruck in front of her.

According toDeath Valley National Park, the truck'sbrakes caught on fire twice while descending CA-190 eastbound from Towne Pass.

The employee used a park radio to report the fire and received a response from rangers in Furnace Creek, 35 miles away.

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The truck driver pulled off onto the road shoulder and used a fire extinguisher to put out the fire.

The truck continued on the road with the off-duty employee following behind in case of re-ignition.

The brakes caught on fire again and forced the truck to stop atEmigrant Junction.

Officials said the driver’s fire extinguisher had been fully expended fighting the first incident.

The NPS fire engine soon arrived and extinguished the scene before it caused significant damage.

According to NPS, one tire was destroyed by the fire, but the truck limped away on 17 wheels.

This was the third vehicle fire that Death Valley National Park’s rangers have responded to this year.

Officials said some roads in the park have long, steep grades, up to 9%. Park rangers advise truck and trailer drivers to research their routes in advance, and consider less-steep alternatives.

Drivers are reminded to ensure their vehicles are in good condition and use engine braking or downshift to prevent overheating their brakes.