Industrial Complex Fire - Buildings Destroyed

photo 16August 19, 2013 - A plume of black smoke could be seen as far as 30 miles away as more than 80 firefighters battled a sprawling industrial blaze on Monday. The FWFD was dispatched to 1200 Herbert St. after receiving calls of black smoke and fire were visible. Within two minutes, crews arrived on scene and made entry. Approximately 15 minutes later, after conditions worsened, firefighters were forced to evacuate the structure and fight the fire defensively as it continued to spread. Multiple buildings in the complex were destroyed. While two firefighters were treated on scene, no other injuries were reported. Air and water quality in and around the site were continuously monitored and no elevated levels of hazardous materials were detected. No evacuations were mandated. AEP was requested to cut power to the affected fire area. This cut impacted neighborhoods on the same grid. Power was restored to AEP customers by 9:30 pm. FWFD remained on scene throughout the night monitoring and extinguishing hot spots. Demolition crews were also on scene working in coordination with the FWFD Investigators as they work to determine the cause of the blaze.