Massive Redwood City Industrial Fire Brought Under Control

REDWOOD CITY (KCBS) — Firefighters have controlled a six-alarm fire at a machine shop in Redwood City this morning that spread to four nearby buildings and displaced 17 residents, a fire marshal said.

The fire at 894 Douglass Avenues reported at 5:52 a.m., and quickly shifted from three to six alarms. The blaze started in a company known as FMW Machinery, where KPIX 5 reported that there were fears that propane tanks could be set on fire.

Firefighters contained the fire as of about 9:15 a.m. and had it under control by 10:30 a.m., Redwood City Fire Marshal Jim Palisi said.

Before firefighters could contain the massive blaze, it spread to a nearby apartment building, causing "significant" damage, Palisi said.

About 15 people live in the building and could not return Friday, he said. Damage to the machine shop was extensive, including the collapse of the building's roof, Palisi said.

The blaze sent smoke to the North West over San Carlos, Belmont and San Mateo. Meteorologist Lawrence Karnow reports there is no wind, and smoke from the blaze was settling in the area. People driving in the area, including on Highway 101, were being urged to keep their windows rolled up during the morning commute.

The San Mateo County Health System is advising residents to stay indoors to avoid exposure if they smell smoke. The agency warns that children, the elderly and people with respiratory conditions are particularly sensitive, spokeswoman Robin Thaw said.

Other steps to mitigate risks from smoke inhalation include setting air conditioning units and car ventilation systems to re-circulate air, Thaw said.