Fire Breaks Out at Fort Loudon Waste and Recycling Facility in Knoxville
Knoxville, TN – A significant fire erupted late Thursday night at the Fort Loudon Waste and Recycling facility, located on the dead-end of Hancock Street. The Knoxville Fire Department received the first report of the blaze at approximately 10:28 p.m.. Fire crews quickly mobilized to the scene to combat what has been described as a “heavily involved” fire within the 10,500 square foot building.
Past Incidents at the Location
This recent fire is not the first incident at this site. In May 2019, a fire also broke out at the same facility after a forklift backfired, leading to evacuations in the surrounding neighborhoods and drawing a large response from local fire crews. The history of fires at this recycling facility has raised concerns among residents about the safety of the area.
Firefighters Tackle the Blaze
Upon arrival, Knoxville firefighters quickly initiated defensive operations to control the spreading flames. According to KFD spokesperson Mark Wilbanks, multiple efforts were deployed, including setting up three master streams to direct water into the facility. Given the scale of the fire, two additional fire companies were called in to assist the teams already battling the blaze.
As the situation developed, crews remained on site to monitor and deal with hot spots throughout the early hours of Friday. Their dedicated efforts helped mitigate what could have been a more extensive disaster.
Air Quality Monitoring and Safety Precautions
In an effort to ensure public safety, KFD also called on a hazardous materials company to conduct air monitoring as a precautionary measure. Fortunately, no hazardous substances were detected in the air around the site at this time. This step reflects the department’s commitment to safety and transparency during such emergencies.
Casualties and Ongoing Investigations
As of Friday morning, there have been no reported injuries resulting from the fire. Firefighters continued their work, ensuring that all safety protocols were being followed. Investigators are on the scene to determine the cause of the fire. They are actively seeking community input and have encouraged anyone with information to contact the KFD Arson Hotline at 865-637-1386 or the State Arson Hotline at 1-800-762-3017. All tips are confidential, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in resolving such incidents.
Community Impact
The local community has expressed concern over the previous fire incidents at this facility, noting that the remains of the structure from past fires have already impacted nearby homes and businesses. Residents in the area are concerned about the potential dangers and the impact on their quality of life. Fire department officials are taking these concerns seriously, as they continue their investigation into the fire and its effects.
Conclusion
As the situation continues to develop, firefighters will remain on the scene for the immediate future to ensure that all hot spots are fully extinguished and to monitor for any further issues. Local residents are advised to stay alert and keep abreast of any developments from the Knoxville Fire Department as they work to ensure community safety.
