HUTCHINSON, Kan. (KAKE) – Two firefighters were hospitalized on Tuesday during a commercial building fire in Hutchinson.
The Hutchinson Fire Department says on Tuesday morning, crews responded to 2404 E 4th Avenue for the report of a building fire.
During the response, dispatch advised crews that bystanders were reporting large amounts of smoke and fire. Crews were able to see a large glow and smoke plumb while leaving the station.
The first arriving crew found heavy fire and initiated defensive fire operations, the department said. The assignment was immediately upgraded to request mutual aid from multiple agencies. Firefighters encountered numerous hazards while fighting the fire that included down-charged power lines, numerous explosions and high heat.
Due to the extensive heat, crews were presented with additional building fires to the surrounding structures that required attention to minimize surrounding structure damage.
HFD implemented rigorous on-scene rehabilitation procedures to ensure all members were staying hydrated, checked their vital signs, and were able to continue fire suppression efforts.
Due to the heat and environmental conditions, two firefighters were hospitalized. They have since been released and cleared for duty.
During the fire, HFD was flowing approximately 7,000 gallons of water per minute.
The fire required the use of ten engines and two ladder trucks to sustain suppression efforts.
The fire took three hours to bring under control and concluded with three hours of investigation by HFD, HPD, Reno County Sherriff and the State Fire Marshal.
The fire continues to be under investigation pending further interviews. It is currently undetermined when the cause of the fire will be released. HFD will notify if a cause is determined.
