Prompt action saves cars from flames

ON THE JOB: Masterton firefighters Justin Long (left) and Murray Pike douse the flames that burnt out this Peugeot's engine. BELOW: The charred mess that was left under the bonnet.PHOTOS/LYNDA FERINGA

The quick action of shoppers who rang the fire service when they noticed flames and smoke pouring from a car parked in the Countdown carpark helped save two nearby cars from the same fate.

Just before 3pm yesterday, firefighters were called to the carpark to find a Peugeot 206 with smoke billowing from the engine bonnet.

When the Times-Age arrived on the scene, the Dixon St entrance to the carpark was cordoned off, with firefighters hosing the engine. People stood milling around watching.

Acting Station Officer Andy Simpson said they were unsure as to the cause of the fire but the engine was seriously damaged, with melted plastic and rubber hoses left under the hood.

"We have no idea. The lady is off calling her insurance company."

Firefighter Murray Pike, who was helping to keep neighbouring cars cool and safe with a hose, said luckily someone rang the fire service as the car was parked between two other vehicles in the carpark.

"It could have easily spread to the other cars," he said.

Shannelle Aldridge was inside Countdown when people ran inside to say there was a vehicle alight in the carpark.

"I saw this silver Peugeot. It was on fire. When the firefighters lifted the bonnet there were flames and lots of black smoke coming from the engine. There was a big hole in the bonnet," she said.

Michael McRae said he had seen cars ablaze before and thought it could have been a fuel leak dripping on to plastic fittings, which could have caused the fire.

Another spectator, Leanne Wright, said it was a frightening experience as she pushed her toddler in a trolley towards their car, four down from the burning Peugeot. "It's just one of those things but it could easily have got out of control."