Massive Fire Breaks Out at Plastic Recycling Yard in Glendale
PHOENIX – On Saturday night, a massive fire erupted at a plastic recycling yard near US 60 and 67th Avenue in Glendale, sending a huge plume of smoke into the air. The fire broke out around 6 p.m. and quickly escalated, prompting Glendale Fire to upgrade it to a working fire with exposures to a building.
Authorities received reports of a vehicle fire, which was later identified as a semi truck and trailer on fire. An explosion was reported, believed to have been caused by a fuel tank. Additional help was requested from nearby fire departments, including Phoenix, Peoria, Tempe, and Tolleson.
The recycling yard, which also produces pet food and containers for food, is located near a roofing company. It is unclear if the roofing company was also damaged in the fire. The cause of the fire is still unknown, but firefighters were able to contain it within a few hours.
At least 75 firefighters responded to the blaze, and there have been no reported injuries to firefighters or residents in the area. Neighborhoods within a two-block radius of the scene were evacuated, and the railroad was closed as the fire continued to rage on for hours.
The National Weather Service in Phoenix reported that the fire was visible on the weather radar. They also warned of wind gusts up to 20-25 mph following the outflows from the fire.
Road closures are in effect, with US 60 (Grand Ave) closed in both directions between 59th Ave/Glendale and 67th Ave/Northern, according to ADOT.
As of 8:40 p.m., Glendale Fire’s Assistant Chief Ken Barnes stated that the fire was nearly extinguished, and crews were in a good position in terms of firefighting efforts.
The cause of the fire is under investigation, and authorities will assess the extent of the damage to the recycling yard and surrounding areas once the fire is completely extinguished.
For more information and updates on the fire, watch FOX 10’s coverage by Lauren Clark, who provides the latest details on the massive recycling yard fire that broke out on August 12 near US 60 and 67th Avenue. Additionally, a viewer sent in footage of the fire, showcasing the intensity of the flames. Michael Reynolds also captured up-close footage of the massive fire in the Phoenix area.
Please refer to the map below for the location of the fire.
[Map of the fire location]
What precautions can be taken to prevent fires in recycling yards and other industrial settings?
And multiple fire crews were called to the scene to battle the flames. The intense blaze engulfed the plastic recycling yard, spreading to nearby structures and causing significant damage.
Witnesses reported hearing loud bangs and seeing flames shoot into the sky as the fire rapidly spread. The plume of smoke could be seen for miles around, prompting concerns about air quality in the surrounding areas. Residents were advised to stay indoors and keep their windows closed as a precaution.
Firefighters worked tirelessly to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading further. Despite the challenging circumstances, they were able to bring the flames under control after several hours of intense firefighting efforts. However, the damage to the plastic recycling yard and surrounding structures was extensive.
No injuries have been reported so far, but investigations are underway to determine the cause of the fire. It is believed that the fire originated from the semi truck and trailer, but the exact circumstances leading to the blaze remain unknown.
The incident serves as a reminder of the potential dangers associated with fire hazards in recycling yards. The combination of flammable materials and industrial processes can result in catastrophic fires, posing a threat to both property and human lives.
Authorities are working to assess the extent of the damage caused by the fire and will continue to monitor the situation for any potential risks. Cleanup efforts will also be underway to address the aftermath of the blaze.
As the investigation unfolds, it will be crucial to identify any safety breaches or lapses that may have contributed to the incident. This will help authorities take necessary precautions and implement measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
In the meantime, residents and businesses in the area are advised to remain vigilant and report any signs of fire risks promptly. Fire safety measures and awareness can play a crucial role in preventing and mitigating the impact of such devastating incidents.
Oh no, that’s devastating! I hope everyone is safe and that the fire gets under control soon.