HANTSPORT -- A structure fire at a Hantsport production facility was quickly controlled May 24 thanks to the helping hands of mutual responders.
The fire that broke out within the facility’s oven equipment was called in at 1:30 p.m. Hantsport’s fire department responded within minutes, with Brooklyn, Windsor and Wolfville departments heading over just minutes after.
Hantsport deputy fire chief Paul Maynard said the fire had extended into the facility’s roof line by the time fire crews arrived at the scene, and instructed firefighters to begin a full interior attack to extinguish the flames while outside crews pumped water from atop two aerial ladders to keep the roof cool and quell budding hotspots.
By 2:45 p.m., the fire was under control, and crews continued checking the roof to ensure hotspots were put out for good. An emergency response team from the facility worked alongside firefighters to extinguish the blaze.
“Our crews are getting changed up on a regular basis – it’s very hot in there normally, so adding fire to it isn’t good,” said Maynard, who thanked the mutual and automatic aid responders for helping out Hantsport as it fought it’s second fire of the day.
“Us all helping out is extremely important.”
Workers continued working even as firefighters continued managing the fire. Maynard confirmed employees were instructed to resume their various duties once the fire was contained and the facility’s equipment once again turned on.
He added the damage to the facility is expected to have effected only the oven and ceiling. No one was reported injured as a result of the fire, and crews were returned to Hantsport’s station by 3:11 p.m.
As for the number of fires happening in the Kings County and West Hants areas, Maynard had no words.
“I wish I knew, but no idea – all I can say is it’s been a busy time,” he said.
