WHAT: 3-Alarm Recycling Building Fire.
WHEN: August 11, 2023, at 4:40 p.m.
WHERE: 9590 Clay Rd. 77080.
INJURIES: One civilian was transported to the hospital for possible smoke inhalation.
PROPERTY SAVED: More than $4,800,000 in estimated property saved.
DAMAGE: $200,000 in estimated damage.
CAUSE: Under investigation.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Firefighters arrived on scene within seven minutes to find heavy smoke and fire coming form a large recycling building and recycling product on the ground in front of it. Interior sprinklers were activated on arrival. It was not possible to complete a primary search due to the conditions.
The fire was upgraded to a second alarm due to the high winds, temperature, and amount of product burning. Nearby exposures were protected by aerial operations. HFD Hazmat monitored the air and runoff. The results were neutral with no danger to the public. Firefighters were advised to continue to use their self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) or respirators.
A third alarm was called because of the amount of fire, fire load, and extreme heat. Once the third alarm companies arrived on scene they were rotated as relief crews and the first and second alarm crews were sent to rehab. EMS units were also sent to each division to assist and monitor crews for exhaustion.
One civilian was transported to the hospital for possible smoke inhalation. Firefighters continued to cool down and extinguish the fire and the product was moved out to keep the smoldering fire in check. HFD Arson investigators were requested to determine the cause and origin of the fire. 137 personnel were dispatched to this incident, including crews from Stations 4, 13, 31, 67, 50, 2, 15, 28, 78, 83, 5, 10, 11, 49, 51, 60, 69, 75, 77, 6, 38, 62, 96, 8, 15, 30, 57, Hazmat, Rescue 10, Rehab 17 and the Village Fire Department.