WHAT: Compactor fire in a recycling complex.
WHEN: March 8, 2023 at 6:36 a.m.
WHERE: 1200 Brittmoore Rd. 77043.
INJURIES: No reported injuries.
PROPERTY SAVED: More than $38,800,000 in estimated property saved.
DAMAGE: $350,000 in estimated damage.
CAUSE: Unintentional.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Firefighters arrived on scene within five minutes to find a fire in a large compactor of a mega complex designed for compacting and bailing of various recyclable materials. The fire was being contained by the automatic fire protection system. HFD crews completed the extinguishment and upon investigation, it was determined a second compactor was on fire. HPD was requested for traffic control and the fire was eventually brought under control. It was determined that both fires were due to the conveyor system not being initially shut down. Firefighters from Stations 2, 5, 78, 49, 57 and 77 responded to this incident.