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April 30, 2009

Cause of fire under investigation

Upwards of $750,000 in damages to Claremore business

By Krystal J. Carman

April 30, 2009 — A fire that broke out at an industrial business in Claremore kept more than 50 firefighters busy for more than eight hours on Wednesday.

At 11:20 a.m., Northwest Fire Department responded to the fire at Finished Coatings Inc., near the intersection of Lowry and Owalla, and saw smoke coming from every door in the building.

Within minutes of fighting the fire, Northwest called for mutual aid from Claremore Fire, Verdigris Fire, Foyil Fire, Limestone Fire, Tri-District Fire, Collinsville city and rural fire departments and Rolling Hills Fire. Pafford Ambulance was also on scene.

The fire was so large that Rogers County Districts 2 and 3 also sent water tankers. Rogers County Sheriff’s deputies provided security at the scene.

Rogers County Emergency Management Director Bob Anderson said the building sustained severe damage, especially to the roof area.

“Claremore brought their tower ladder truck to attack the fire from above and the roof was heavily damaged,” he said. “It was a pretty intense fire for a while.”

Damages to the approximately 80-foot by 160-foot building are estimated between $750,000 and $900,000. Some farm equipment stored inside the building was damaged in the fire and the office area sustained smoke and water damage.

The building was vacant of occupants at the time of the fire, but some employees had been in the office area prior to the fire.

There were no injuries reported, according to Anderson.

While on scene, firefighters were provided beverages and food through efforts by Emergency Management. Beverages were donated by Wal-Mart, Kum & Go on Blue Starr and Quick & Easy provided unlimited ice and cups. Food for firefighters and emergency responders was donated by Pizza Hut, Sonic Drive-In and McDonald’s. The American Red Cross was also on scene providing beverages.

Northwest’s fire marshal investigated the scene until 8:30 p.m. Wednesday and the cause of the fire is still under investigation.

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