Massive Ariz. Pallet Fire Challenged FFs

April 2, 2010
PHOENIX -- The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality is monitoring the air around the site where a massive pallet fire burned Wednesday evening. Wind gusts as high as 40 mph fanned the two-alarm fire, which started shortly after 6 p.m., at the Hernandez Pallete Company on 43rd Avenue near Laveen. Nearly 100 firefighters worked to keep the fire from spreading to nearby businesses and neighborhoods.

PHOENIX --

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality is monitoring the air around the site where a massive pallet fire burned Wednesday evening.

Wind gusts as high as 40 mph fanned the two-alarm fire, which started shortly after 6 p.m., at the Hernandez Pallete Company on 43rd Avenue near Laveen.

Nearly 100 firefighters worked to keep the fire from spreading to nearby businesses and neighborhoods.

"We've had quite a challenge just with the number of hydrants in the neighborhood," said Capt. Tony Mure, a spokesman for the Phoenix Fire Department. "We've had to lay several thousand feet of hose just to get enough water to put the fire out."

Firefighters said that nearby warehouses were saved only because the strong winds were blowing flames and embers in the opposite direction.

The blaze sparked multiple explosions and topped power lines.

No injuries were reported.

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