WATCH: Ambulance bursts into flames after transferring patients in Limerick

An ambulance burst into flames on a motorway a short time after transferring patients in Limerick recently.

The Murray Ambulance Service paramedics were returning to their base after working in the Limerick area on Thursday, July 17.

The Limerick Leader / Limerick Live reports that the incident occurred at around 7.30pm on the M18 near the exit for Ennis. It is the third such ambulance fire in a matter of weeks after similar occurrences in Offaly and Mayo. 

The latter incidents, involving HSE ambulances, occurred while the vehicles were not in use. The HSE has launched an investigation. It is believed the causes of the fires in the HSE ambulances are distinct to the incident on the motorway in Ennis.

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James Murray, co-founder of Murray Ambulance Service based in Castlebar, confirmed there was an engine bay fire involving one of their ambulances on the motorway.

“No patients were on board at the time. I am delighted to report that nobody was injured, whilst it is unfortunate to lose an ambulance vehicle, vehicles can be replaced,” said Mr Murray.

He praised the actions of his paramedics involved.

“The crew followed their training and protocols to the last letter, thereby ensuring their own safety, the safety of other road users, and the public,” said Mr Murray.

After they had pulled over safely on the hard shoulder of the motorway, it is understood the quick-thinking crew removed oxygen tanks, which could have exploded in the blaze, to prevent possible injuries to other road users.

“The crew are fully trained for emergency situations and followed all protocols exactly as they should. The Fire Service were notified and supported the response, quenching the fire,” said Mr Murray.

The paramedic for almost 35 years said they operate a modern, well-maintained fleet, with strict servicing schedules and robust safety standards.

Having conducted preliminary inspections on the rest of their fleet, Mr Murrays said they are of the opinion that this is “a rare incident and not reflective of any systemic issue”. 

“We are now conducting a full internal review to determine the cause definitively and to learn. We have notified the HSE and HSA and are keeping them fully informed.

“Public and staff safety is our absolute priority, and we are handling this responsibly and transparently,” said Mr Murray.

He concluded by saying Murray Ambulance Service have no further comment until the review is complete, but they are happy to follow up when appropriate.