Multiple Fire Departments Respond to Fire at Novelis Aluminum Plant in Scriba, NY
A large fire broke out at the Novelis aluminum plant in Scriba, New York, late Tuesday night, drawing responses from more than 20 fire departments across Oswego County and neighboring areas. The fire, which reached a third alarm, prompted a significant mutual aid response.
Details of the Incident
According to Oswego County 911 dispatches, the fire started at approximately 10:15 p.m. at 448 County Route 1A. Firefighters arriving on the scene reported flames and heavy smoke emanating from the plant's roof, leading to calls for additional resources to provide more water.
- The fire started around 10:15 p.m. on Tuesday.
- A third alarm was declared, bringing in mutual aid.
- Flames and heavy smoke were visible from the plant's roof.
Response and Location
Departments from Altmar, Brewerton, Cody, Fulton, Lacona, Minetto, Mexico, New Haven, Oswego City, Oswego Town, Orwell, Palermo, Parish, Pulaski, Redfield, Richland, Sandy Creek, Scriba, Volney and Williamstown responded to the scene, along with fire coordinators and a Menter Ambulance. Crews remained on site as of 1 a.m. Wednesday, working to contain the blaze.
Novelis: A Key Employer in Oswego County
Novelis, headquartered in Atlanta, is a major player in the aluminum industry and the world's largest recycler of aluminum. The Scriba facility is its largest wholly-owned fabrication plant in North America. It employs approximately 1,200 people locally and is one of the largest employers in Oswego County, employing more than 1,000 people. The plant produces more than a billion pounds of aluminum sheet each year for the automotive, beverage can, and building and construction markets.
Impact and Investigation
Flames and smoke were visible for miles around the plant, according to social media posts from nearby residents and responding firefighters. As of early Wednesday morning, it remained unclear whether anyone was inside the plant when the fire started or if there were any injuries. This is an ongoing situation and will be updated as more information becomes available.