Flames from a fire at Muth Lumber were visible for over a half mile away as area firefighters rushed to control the blaze and save the remainder of the property early Sunday morning.

Monday, September 24, 2001

Flames from a fire at Muth Lumber were visible for over a half mile away as area firefighters rushed to control the blaze and save the remainder of the property early Sunday morning.

The call was received from the county’s 911 office at 6:41 a.m., Fire Capt. Mike Hasenauer said. Hasenauer was the lead officer on the first responding crew and said the fire had a "headstart" on the emergency crews.

"We were a half-mile away when we saw the flames," Hasenauer said.

One storage building – about 150 to 200 feet long – loaded with pallets of hardwood, caught fire. Hasenauer said the building was considered a a total loss and firefighters concentrated their efforts on saving two adjacent buildings, which included the company’s office. The office building sustained some minor damage on the outside. Hasenauer said the building’s vinyl siding was damaged.

The fire occurred just before the shift change at the city’s fire department. All three shifts were called to duty during the emergency.

In addition to Ironton’s department, firefighters from Upper Township, Coal Grove, Hamilton Township, Perry Township and Elizabeth Township were called to the scene. Firefighters from South Point were called in to man the station and provide coverage for the city.

Fire crews remained on the scene throughout Sunday night and into Monday morning to monitor hot spots.

No injuries were reported and, so far, the reason for the fire is unknown but is under investigation by city fire officials and the Ohio Fire Marshal’s office. Investigators were on the scene Monday morning.