Kearney VFD called to fire at Eaton Corporation, building evacuated

Kearney VFD called to fire at Eaton Corporation, building evacuated
Courtesy/City of Kearney
May 25th, 2023 | Rural Radio Network

Kearney VFD called to fire at Eaton Corporation

Kearney, Neb. — Kearney Volunteer Fire Department (KVFD) was dispatched to an industrial fire at Eaton Corporation, 4200 East Highway 30, early Wednesday evening.

Upon arrival, KVFD crews found heavy black smoke coming from the roof and exterior doors of the west side of the facility and employees in the process of evacuation. The first arriving engine established a water supply and the crew pulled handlines and made entry into the facility. The crews initiated fire attack and a primary search. The fire was found and extinguished.

Another crew gained access to the roof with a Ladder Truck and found that the fire had not reached the roof. Fire Command made contact with Eaton management and verified that all employees had evacuated and were accounted for. Eaton’s management and maintenance personnel assisted KVFD in identifying and isolating the power to the affected area and shutting down the sprinkler system, which had been activated by the fire.

Prior to KVFD’s arrival, Eaton employees attempted to extinguish the fire, until the conditions deteriorated and they were forced to evacuate. Two Eaton employees were evaluated by Good Samaritan EMS for smoke inhalation. No other injuries were reported and no personnel were transported to the hospital.

The fire origin and cause remains under investigation. However, the initial investigation indicates that the fire started in a seat grinder and spread to a mist collector. The fire was mostly contained to the area of these two machines.

Other agencies who responded and assisted KVFD was Good Samaritan EMS, Buffalo County Sheriff’s Office, and Nebraska Public Power District.

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