Fire And Explosions Destroy Former Paint Shop

Fire crews were called to the 4000 block of Old Hartsville Road just before 1 a.m. Tuesday after reports of an explosion and a building on fire.

Scottsville Fire Department officials said the building was once home to S&W Coatings, a paint shop known for mixing specialized coatings.

When crews arrived, they found a massive fire already burning with large explosions going about 200 feet in the air.

Scottsville Fire Department assistant chief, Rickey Cooksey said there were possibly 20 to 30 barrels of solvents, thinners, paints and other materials inside.

Because of the chemicals involved and a creek located below the property, firefighters made the decision not to pour large amounts of water onto the fire since the water would run off into the creek.

Crews staged at a safe distance and used drone footage to monitor the fire.

Officials said the flames stayed contained to the area, and the recent rains helped prevent the fire from spreading into the nearby woods.

According to Cooksey, the cause for the explosion remains unclear. The EPA and hazmat teams were notified because of the materials involved.

As of Tuesday afternoon, the fire was still active. Officials expect to continue checking the property for hot spots as it burns itself out, with plans to use minimal water only where needed.
Source: WBKO