No injuries in Huge Salem Fire

Salem-News.com

(SALEM) - A fire that broke out around 12:00 noon at Salem Black Top and Asphalt sent smoke and flames towering into the sky over south Salem.

Fortunately, Salem Fire Spokesman Bill Holmstrom says nobody was injured in the 2-alarm blaze in the 1500 block of McGilchrist Road SE.

Holmstrom says the fire broke out in a 20,000-gallon asphalt container. The material created thick, black dense smoke that was visible for several miles in either direction.

Salem Police blocked off several roads in the local area, keeping traffic far back from the black top and asphalt company.

Firefighters were able to bring the flames under control, and the column of black smoke over Salem dissipated. Residents are reminded to take extra measures when it comes to fire safety, as temperatures around western Oregon are climbing and flammable materials are becoming increasingly drier and subject to ignition.