Folsom and metropolitan firefighters safely extinguish leaking propane tank

An area off Cavitt Drive was briefly evacuated Tuesday evening as firefighters from two agencies responded to a leaking propane tank near a parking lot.

Upon arrival, Folsom's Engine 37 firefighters quickly identified the leaking tank at 1800 Cavitt Drive, where Costco is located, and assessed the potential danger to people near the property, which also contains a gas station.

The crew assumed command and initiated an evacuation of the immediate area as additional resources were requested. The Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District dispatched three units to assist, including Hazmat Engine 109, Metro Engine 109, and Battalion 7.

According to the Folsom Fire Department, the two departments worked together to de-escalate the situation by initiating a flare operation, which involved running a line from the damaged propane tank to a safe distance, opening the line and igniting the released fuel to burn it off.

The process safely drained the tank so it could be repaired or replaced by the appropriate utility company or property owner. The incident records indicate the process took approximately 27 minutes and all of the fuel was safely drained and burned.