Clark-Cowlitz Fire Rescue responds to fully involved outbuilding in La Center 

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Units from Clark-Cowlitz Fire Rescue were dispatched to reports of an outbuilding on fire east of La Center just before 5:20 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 3.

Initial reports stated there were several explosions that could be heard coming from the building located at 32318 NE 64th Ave., which were later identified as propane tanks and ammunition that were stored in the building, stated a news release.

An engine from the La Center station arrived nine minutes after the call came in to find a two-story building with a basement fully involved in flames. As crews stretched hose lines to contain the fire, portions of the building collapsed. 

Crews took on a “defensive strategy,” stated the release, as they fought the fire from the outside. Firefighters focused their efforts on containing the fire so it did not spread to nearby structures. Crews were able to bring the fire under control in 40 minutes.

The fire created hazards for responders because of its unprotected steel beams and trusses, which were weakened, distorted and collapsed because of the heat.



“We are fortunate that no firefighters were harmed at this fire,” stated Fire Chief John Nohr in the release. “The homemade design and construction of this structure lacked fire protection features that are commonly found in this type of building.” 

The release stated the two-story structure included “a full daylight basement” that opened up to a large pond. The structure was used by the property owners to entertain guests, stated the release. 

The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Clark County Fire Marshal’s Office. No injuries were reported during the fire, stated the release.

CCFR was assisted by water tenders from Clark County Fire District 10. In all, three fire engines, one ladder truck, four water tenders, three chief officers, one fire investigator and 18 total personnel responded to the fire.