A potentially dangerous situation was quickly brought under control in Mount Pleasant, S.C., on Friday morning after a hazardous chemical spill was spotted on West Coleman Boulevard. Thanks to the sharp eyes of a local police officer and the quick response by emergency teams, no one was hurt.
What Happened on West Coleman Boulevard
It all began when a police officer noticed a plastic gallon jug lying on the road. The bottle had likely fallen and burst open on impact, with the cap popping off and releasing fumes. The officer immediately called for help after realizing it could be a chemical hazard.
Identifying the Chemical
When fire crews arrived at the scene, they confirmed that the leaking substance was muriatic acid—a strong form of hydrochloric acid. This chemical is commonly used in cleaning or pool maintenance but can be harmful if handled the wrong way.
Because of the acid’s dangerous fumes, hazmat (hazardous materials) teams from both Charleston and Mount Pleasant were called in to deal with the situation safely.
Why Muriatic Acid Is Dangerous
Muriatic acid gives off strong fumes that can:
Irritate the eyes and cause conjunctivitis
Disturb the stomach and digestive system
Affect the lungs and airways, leading to breathing problems or a chronic cough
The teams took these risks seriously and acted fast to neutralize the chemical and clean up any leftovers.
Quick Action by Emergency Crews
Firefighters and hazmat teams worked together to secure the area, neutralize the acid, and remove any traces from the road. Their swift action made sure that no nearby residents or passersby were affected. The area has now been declared safe, and traffic is moving normally.
Key Safety Measures Taken:
Immediate isolation of the affected area
Use of protective gear by cleanup teams
Chemical neutralization to stop further damage
Full cleanup and safety clearance before reopening the area
This incident in Mount Pleasant shows how fast and coordinated emergency responses can prevent serious harm. Thanks to the alert police officer and trained hazmat crews, a risky chemical spill was safely handled without any injuries. It’s a strong reminder to report anything unusual we see on the roads and trust our first responders to manage emergencies.
