2/20/20

By: Rob Moore

White County Firefighters battle early morning blaze – Photo-Colton Hannula

(Cleveland)- On Wednesday evening at approximately 11:15 PM, White County firefighters with automatic aid from the City of Cleveland and Lee Arrendale Fire Brigade (L.A.C.I.), responded to a commercial fire at  Southern Legacy Wood Products, formerly known as Mount Yonah Lumber, located at 1605 Helen Highway.

A news release from White County Public Safety Director David Murphy advised when firefighters arrived on scene they found a fully involved fire at a 40 x 40 x 20 foot high metal building.  The building was filled to the roof with firewood being processed (the company processes firewood to be sold by kiln drying it).  Murphy said the origin of the fire was determined to be the kiln itself which was full of firewood causing explosions resulting in the metal roof and other portions of the building to “blow-off”.  There were approximately 36 cords of wood in the kiln.

Firefighters were on scene for about 8 hours. 

According to Murphy, no injuries were reported, and the fire is believed to be a mechanical failure.  White County CERT  rehab unit responded to assist fire personnel.

Photo- Colton Hannula

Photo- Colton Hannula