Company 3 arrived to find a large commercial warehouse filled with smoke, and the sprinkler system was activated. As crews entered, the fire was located deep inside the warehouse and beyond reach of the initial attack lines. The crews relocated to the south end of the building to make an interior attack on the fire.
Fire crews were challenged with zero viability, a heavy fire load, and material falling from the storage racks. With the sprinkler system keeping the fire in check, crews were able to work around the storage racks and begin attacking the fire. The roof was opened over the fire to increase visibility. Roof crews noted fire above the sprinklers that the attack crews could not see from the floor.
Mabas 10 responded with a large space ventilation truck to assist with smoke removal, allowing the attack crews to visualize the fire area more clearly. After the main body of fire was extinguished, crews worked isle by isle to remove product and extinguish any remaining spot fires.
The initial crews remained on the scene for over 5 hours, extinguishing hot spots and checking for extension. One firefighter was transported to the hospital for a shoulder injury. A crew of firefighters will remain on the scene overnight with the sprinkler system out of service to ensure there are no flare ups.
Fire crews from stations 1, 3, 4, 6, 7, and 8 responded to the scene. The cause of the fire is under investigation.