SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon State Fire Marshal has mobilized several resources to help first responders, including a hazmat team, to a large fire at Pacific Seafood in Newport. The fire was first reported on Sunday morning. State Hazmat Team 05, Linn-Benton, responded because of the presence of anhydrous ammonia, used in refrigeration, at the facility. The team is using specialized equipment to monitor the air and is modeling where there may be impacts to help with evacuations.
The agency is mobilizing a task force with a ladder truck and four engines to provide relief to local firefighters. The task force from Marion County will arrive this evening to relieve crews battling the fire. A strike team from Lane County with five engines will arrive tomorrow morning.
“The ammonia tank has been found and, thankfully, doesn’t appear to be punctured or leaking. Our team is on the ground and will remain in Newport through the duration of the incident,” State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “The Oregon Fire Mutual Aid System is frequently used during wildfire response; it is designed for all hazards, including hazmat. This response highlights its strength in protecting communities and providing resources to local responders.”
The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office has issued levels 2 and 3 evacuations for those within a mile of the facility. The city of Newport has an evacuation shelter at Sam Case Elementary at 459 NE 12th St. Evacuees may bring their pets. The sheriff’s office provides all evacuation information. A map of evacuations can be found on their website. People are asked to avoid the area.
The Oregon State Fire Marshal has a regional mobilization coordinator on scene who is working closely with Newport Fire to provide any additional support.
