Kelso, WA.— Official Release: Firefighters from Cowlitz 2 Fire & Rescue responded to a report of a Fire Alarm at 351 Three Rivers Dr. Suite 256 (Kelso Mall) Sunday evening at 5:47. Fire crews were dispatched when the fire alarm and sprinkler system were activated by smoke in one of the mall units. Crews arrived and initially found no signs of smoke or fire. After searching the structure, firefighters were able to locate the fire in a business as smoke spread into the north end of the mall. The alarm was upgraded from a fire alarm to a commercial fire and additional fire units were dispatched.
After extinguishing the fire using a hose line, fire crews checked that the fire had not spread into the walls or to other areas; the fire is under investigation. The Kelso Library was adjacent to the fire unit. Fire crews conducted salvage operations to minimize water damage to the library books and property. No injuries were reported.
Cowlitz 2 Fire & Rescue responded with two fire engines, one ladder truck, one medic unit and two chief officers. Cowlitz County Fire District #5 responded to assist with a fire engine.
Battalion Chief Matt Beaulaurier notes, “The commercial sprinklers activated as they were supposed to and suppressed the fire long enough until we arrived which prevented further damage to the property, they did their job.”
Fire sprinkler system concepts date back to the early 1800s where they were used in theatres The concept has evolved, but remains very similar and continues to be a vital safeguard in commercial structures and in some residential homes.
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