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Ky. firehouse, apparatus and equipment destroyed by fire

Vine Grove FD lost an antique engine, a 3,000-gallon tanker and extensive supplies in the Hardin County blaze

VINE GROVE Ky. — An overnight blaze gutted Vine Grove Fire Department Station 3 in Hardin County, severely damaging the building and equipment inside.

Vine Grove Fire Chief Matt Haddle told WDRB there were no injuries as firefighters worked through the night on Aug. 20 to extinguish the blaze. The department lost three apparatus, including an antique 1941 engine used for parades and firefighter funerals and a 3,000-gallon tanker, along with extensive supplies and equipment.

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The department operates three stations. Following the fire, two remain in service.

“This doesn’t compromise any of our responses at all, so we will still be the Vine Grove Fire Department with the quick response time that we have,” Haddle said. Neighboring departments will assist if needed.

Haddle said the cost of the fire is estimated to be close to $1.5 million. The cause has not been reported.

Does your station have monitored smoke/heat detection and automatic fire sprinklers? If not, what’s the barrier? Share your station type/age and any steps you’re taking to add or upgrade protection.



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Bill Carey is the associate editor for FireRescue1.com and EMS1.com. A former Maryland volunteer firefighter, sergeant, and lieutenant, Bill has written for several fire service publications and platforms. His work on firefighter behavioral health garnered a 2014 Neal Award nomination. His ongoing research and writings about line-of-duty death data is frequently cited in articles, presentations, and trainings. Have a news tip? He can be reached at news@lexipol.com.