When the first firefighters arrived on scene, they reported seeing flames 20-30 feet high and hearing several explosions. Although crews immediately requested additional tanker trucks, they were able to knock down the flames in about 10 minutes and clear the additional fire trucks—from around the county and Elliston—that were en route.
Fire investigators have determined that the fire originated in the area of a recently installed hot oil heater. Although the fire is determined to be accidental, investigators are not able to establish what specific component of the hot oil heater failed. The heater is fed by natural gas and diesel fuel.
Damages estimates are $70,000.
No injuries were reported.