Date: October 17, 2023
Location: Biggs, California (USA)
Address: 507 Bannock Street, 95917
Type: Dust Fire
Fuel: Grain Dust
Industry: Rice Production (Food Processing)
Equipment: Conveyor System
Company: SunWest Milling
Database Incidents: None Recorded
Loss: No Injuries
Capital Cost: Unknown
Status: Open
Confirmation: Unconfirmed
Company Description:
According to its website, SunWest Milling is a division of Sunwest Foods, which specializes in the production and distribution of rice. The company is known to be involved in various aspects of the rice industry, from farming and milling to packaging and distribution. SunWest Foods often serves both domestic and international markets, providing a range of rice products for consumers and businesses.
Incident Description:
On October 17, 2023, Action News Now reported a fire at a rice storage facility in Biggs, California.
At 3:27 p.m., CAL FIRE units responded to a structure fire at the facility. Firefighters launched an aggressive interior attack against the fire which had taken hold in the facility’s conveyor belt system, spreading up the side of the building and reaching into the basement.
As the incident, dubbed the “Rice Incident” by CAL FIRE, unfolded, the firefighters made significant progress in containing the fire. The crews’ prompt action and targeted approach prevented the flames from breaching the rice storage vaults, protecting the facility’s core assets.
CAL FIRE officials reported that the fire was predominantly located along two conveyor belt shafts. Their effective strategy allowed the units to achieve knockdown of the fire, stopping its spread, and ensuring it did not extend further.
Throughout the operation, firefighters remained on the scene to thoroughly check for any extensions of the fire. Engines were committed for several hours post-knockdown to ensure the fire was completely extinguished and to prevent any possible resurgence.
Fortunately, all personnel were safely evacuated from the building, and CAL FIRE confirmed that there were no injuries as a result of the fire.
Sources:
Action News Now
