Royal Oak Firefighters Called to Assist a Massive Fire in Ferndale

Royal Oak firefighters were called in to assist a massive fire at Van Industries in Ferndale Thursday, which sent smoke billowing from the area that could be seen for many miles away. No injuries were reported.

The company at 1285 Wordsworth – about half a mile north of Eight Mile Road near the railroad tracks east of Hilton – manufactures sanding, buffing and polishing products. 

Flames burst through the roof of the commercial building before 11 a.m. Thursday.

The Royal Oak Fire Department sent a ladder truck, engine truck, ambulance and seven firefighters. Assistant Chief, Kevin Pierzynski was also on the scene.

"We were there for about two hours until the fire was under control," said Capt. Tom Kelly, of the Royal Oak Fire Department.

Although the smoke was mainly rising above the building located in an industrial area in Ferndale, and over the railroad tracks, McGrath recommended residents close their windows if they smell smoke.

"There is no special danger due to any poisonous smoke. The building contains animal fat which caught fire," Ferndale Detective Lt. William Wilson said in a news release.

Also at the scene, Ferndale Mayor David Coulter said Van Industries has been in Ferndale for nearly 50 years. 

At midday, firefighters were putting out hot spots in the building, but were not entering the structure because it was in danger of collapsing, Coulter said. At 12:40 p.m., firefighters continued to spray down the building.

Three employees were inside Van Industries, a family owned business, when the fire broke out about 10:30 a.m., WDIV reported.

Smoke could be seen from miles away from the site. Amy Trerice wrote on Rochester Patch's Facebook page, "What's the giant plume of smoke south of town?"

Kirsten Haupt Cooper Stanley wrote on Ferndale Patch: "Can see the smoke from Sinai-Grace!!" (hospital in Detroit).

Ferndale firefighters were also assisted by the Madison Heights, Oak Park and Hazel Park fire departments. 

Watch video of the fire at the WXYZ website.