According to information released by Elizabethtown Fire Department Deputy Chief Everett Roberts, the department was alerted to a fire at 940 N. Black Branch Road, at 8:48 a.m.
Roberts said the battalion chief was first to arrive and reported heavy black smoke coming from the west side of the production area. The battalion chief quickly confirmed with plant supervision that all employees had been evacuated.
Roberts said a rescue pumper crew made entry with hose lines to extinguish the fire, which was being held in check by the plant sprinkler system. Another crew gained access to the roof but found the fire was not extended.
Roberts said it was determined the fire originated near a hydraulic oil storage vessel causing a flash fire and heavy smoke.
Initially, there were reports of several employees needing medical attention. Hardin County EMS sent several ambulances and a supervisor to the scene. Roberts said it later was determined only one employee was checked on by EMS on scene and that employee did not need medical treatment or transport.
The fire was extinguished, overhauled and ventilation of the structure was completed and all EFD units were clear by 10:55 a.m.
“Fortunately, there were no injuries or major damage to the building,” Roberts said in the statement. “This incident does bring out an opportunity to remind folks to be careful not to block any fire lanes or fire equipment such as sprinkler connections. It is important for fire crews to have immediate access to these areas.”
