05/14/11 - Kuhl Hose was dispatched for an Engine, 2 Tenders and REHAB 68 to respond to the fire ground at North American Powder Coating' on Iroquois Ave. On arrival 682's crew paired up with Fuller Hose Engine Crew and worked to help contain the fire.  The crews worked for hours until they were decontaminated and released due to their exposure.   682 Engine was set up at the water supply, and with 6 tenders pumped for over 8 hours.  Both Kuhl Hose tenders each hauled over 30 loads of water along with the 4 other tenders were able to maintain a constant water supply.  REHAB 68 responded with 5 and while working with Harborcreek, Fairfield and Crescent crews established and set up REHAB for the 150 + firefighters. 

Crews were on the scene for over 12 hours and returned several times over the next days.  There were multiple chemicals that the firefighters were exposed to during the incident.  Kuhl Hose took every precaution to prevent any long term exposure and all of the appropriate measures to protect our firefighters.  As more information is obtained we will evaluate all of our equipment and personel to make sure that health and safety remain our top priority.  We will continue to work with Fairfield Fire Department and other county and state officials in any way possible.

Agencies on scene

Fairfield, Harborcreek, Brookside, Lawrence Park, Wesleyville, Belle Valley, Kearsarge, Perry Hiway, Wattsburg, Crescent, Fuller, Erie Fire, Emergycare, Erie County Haz Mat