VANCOUVER — Just after 6 p.m. Friday (Aug. 28), Vancouver Fire Department and Clark County Fire District 6 crews were dispatched to 7017 NE St. John’s Road for a reported large box or dumpster fire against a building.
First-arriving crews found significantly more than reported. Heavy fire was impinging on the building near a roll-up door, a large dumpster was fully involved, a grass fire was burning south of the building, and a railroad car behind the building was also on fire.
Due to the rapidly developing conditions and multiple areas requiring firefighting operations, command immediately requested a second alarm, bringing additional firefighters and equipment to the scene.
Crews quickly determined that the exterior fire had extended into the building and ignited furniture inventory inside the Furniture World SW warehouse. Fire Divisions were established to coordinate firefighting operations, address the multiple fire areas, and maintain firefighter accountability throughout the incident.
Fifty-six firefighters were utilized during the response, and crews brought the fires under control in approximately 40 minutes.
Furniture World employees reported that they became aware of the fire when the building's fire alarm activated. Employees evacuated safely.
The railroad car involved in the fire is owned by the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization based in Yacolt, Washington. The train passenger car and wrecking crane was being stored on the property while plans were being made to restore it for future use.
Furniture World SW operates two locations in the local area. The fire occurred at its NE St. John’s Road location.
No injuries were reported.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Clark County Fire Marshals Office.
Information provided by the Vancouver Fire Department.
