Strong Winds Lead to Sawmill Fire

Strong Winds Lead to Sawmill Fire

Fire units from across the county assisted in a stubborn fire at the West Frazier sawmill Saturday.

Acme Delco Riegelwood Fire Rescue Chief Steve Camlin said firefighters were called to the sawmill at 1:45 p.m. The first units to arrive reported multiple “large fires” in piles of scrap lumber, along with sawdust and chips.

Winds in excess of 20 miles per hour were fanning the flames as crews deployed on the ground and a tanker shuttle was put into operation. Supply lines were attached to hydrants to directly feed fire engines and ladder trucks being used on the flames.

“The high winds drove the fire more toward the unburned scrap lumber,” Camlin said. “The fire intensified and endangered several structures.”

Fire crews from across Columbus and Bladen along with other counties responded to assist, Camlin said.

“Most or all of the fire departments in Columbus County were utilized,” he said.

 Forest Service helicopters were used when the flames spread into a nearby wooded area.

Camlin said the cause of the fire has been determined, but has not been released, pending completion of the investigation.

“West Frazier representatives have been on scene with ADR, incident command and county officials working to suppress the fire and protect the property and inventory that are in danger,” Camlin said.

The chief praised the volunteers as well as the communicators in the 911 center for their hard work as the fire suppression continued into a second day today (Sunday).

“We appreciate each and every person’s assistance time away from their families and dedication to our county,” he said. “We also want to thank the dispatchers who are doing a miraculously good job taking care of us, while we’re still on scene.”

(Photos courtesy ADR Fire Rescue)