A major catastrophe was averted in Katherine overnight thanks to the actions of a quick-thinking truck driver whose truck caught on fire while hauling dangerous goods, NT Police said.

The Prime Mover Truck was reportedly driving along the Stuart Highway when the driver noticed the fire, quickly detaching it from the trailers that were hauling dangerous goods, including aerosol cans and lithium batteries.

The incident occurred around 2am on the Stuart Highway, leading to some nearby residents being evacuated due to the thick, black smoke.

The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.

Katherine Fire Station members attended the scene and were able to extinguish the blaze.

Acting Deputy Chief Fire Officer Stephen Hunter said investigators also attended the scene and investigations are continuing.

“I would like to commend the driver’s quick thinking in decoupling the truck from the trailers that were carrying dangerous goods,” he said.

“This no doubt prevented a more significant result.

“It is a timely reminder to be mindful about battery storage and other safety aspects pertaining to lithium batteries. If a lithium battery is emitting smoke or fire, evacuate the area and close the doors if it is safe to do so to slow the spread of fire. Remember the vented battery gases, vapour and smoke are highly toxic and flammable and must not be inhaled.

“Call Triple Zero (000) and wait in a safe location for firefighters to arrive.

“Stay informed about fire safety and make sure to fireproof your residence if you are away for the festive season.”