** NO MEDIA COVERAGE – Fire Dept Reported** Dispatch relayed a report of black smoke coming from Unit L to the responding units. The first arriving Company reported an active Water Flow Alarm with smoke showing from Unit L. Fire Command was established and switched radio traffic to a Fire Ground channel and reported that the sprinkler system was activated and appeared to be keeping the fire in-check. All occupants of the effected unit were evacuated and accounted for per the Manager. Dark smoke with very little heat was noted in the office area, with the smoke being heavier in the effected shop area.
The Engine Company deployed a 1 ¾”handline and advanced it to the affected area. Further investigation found that the sprinkler system had already extinguished the fire, requiring no water to be flowed by the Engine Company. The Sprinkler System was shut down and ventilation of the effected units was performed via natural ventilation. Overhaul needs were assessed and utilities addressed.
The post fire investigation found that an employee of Unit L was cleaning grease off the floor with liquid Brake Cleaner when they noticed the floor was on fire. Finding the area of origin being near a gas water heater with flame and heat damage to the area around and above the water heater, with 2 activated sprinkler heads.
Assessment of damages revealed that Unit L had approximately 3″ of standing water throughout the unit damaging interior walls, office furnishings, carpet, nearby mechanical tools and equipment. Units K and M had water damage from seepage under the walls and an odor of smoke. Value of the affected property was estimated at $500,000 with an estimated $15,000 in property damage and $5,000 in contents.
Date: February 26, 2015
Time of Alarm: 0840 hrs.
Type of Alarm: Full Still for the Automatic Fire Alarm.
Weather conditions: 15⁰ with S/W winds at 4 mph. light snow falling with a 2” accumulation.
Building: Multiple occupancy industrial use.
Construction: Masonry with steel bar joist and metal pan decking covered with rubber membrane.
Occupancy: Diesel Truck Mechanical Service
