CAINHOY, S.C.—According to Chief Steve Goodwin with the Cainhoy Fire Department, firefighters responded to the BP/Amoco Plant located off of Cainhoy Road for a reported structure fire on Saturday around 2 p.m.
When they arrived, Goodwin says they found a large, three story building with heavy smoke and fire showing. Charleston County units were immediately called in to assist with extinguishing the flames.
“Fire crews from BP were already on scene. They reported multiple nearby exposures that included other buildings as well as hazardous materials,” stated Goodwin. “Crews confirmed that everyone was out of the building, and that the buildings utilities had been secured.”
While assessing the scene, the chief says fire was already showing through the roof and engulfing the interior of the building.
“Crews made a defensive attack, and were unable to enter the building due to safety concerns,” Goodwin added. “The bulk of the fire had been knocked down within 45 minutes.”
Goodwin stated that crews were able to stop the fire from spreading to any other buildings or hazardous materials areas and remained on scene for approximately four hours to douse hotspots and ensure that all of the fire was extinguished.
According to Goodwin, the building was described as a “compressor building” and is believed to be a total loss.
“BP officials on scene believe the cost of damage to be about $25 million,” Goodwin stated. “The cause of the fire is under investigation.”
Cainhoy Fire Department was assisted on scene by the City of Charleston Fire Department, North Charleston Fire Department, and BP Fire Brigade. Berkeley County EMS also responded to the scene.
Fortunately, no one was injured in the fire.
