CLAREMONT — An overheated kiln oven at an industrial facility in Claremont prompted an emergency response on Sunday night after smoke filled part of the building, according to the Claremont Fire Department.
Firefighters were dispatched at 9:46 p.m. to a radio box alarm at Carbon Felt, Inc., according to news release. The company manufactures products utilizing carbon felt and carbon composites, according to its website.
Fire crews arrived at 9:53 p.m. to find the building’s alarm system activated and a moderate amount of smoke inside, the department said.
Crews searched the interior for several minutes but could not immediately find the source of the smoke. Because of the size and complexity of the facility, the commander on scene ordered firefighters to temporarily withdraw until more personnel arrived, according to the news release.
Representatives for the company eventually were able to point firefighters to the trouble spot: an overheating kiln oven used in carbon manufacturing. The oven was registering above 500 degrees and releasing smoke into the factory, officials said.
Fire crews used a hose to cool the oven, while Carbon Felt staff used a forklift to remove several pallets of smoldering material. No injuries were reported, and damage was contained to the point of origin, the department said.
Emergency responders from Windsor, Newport, Unity and Golden Cross Ambulance provided mutual aid.
Fire officials noted the value of early notification from the city’s radio box system, which allowed for a quick and coordinated response.