Federal report says firefighting tactics at Maine lumber mill explosion aided the blast

The May 15 fire and explosion at the Robbins Lumber mill in Searsmont, Maine, killed three people, including two firefighters, and injured 13 others. The blast originated at the base of a silo, which ultimately toppled and engulfed the surrounding area in fire. According to a report from federal investigators, the firefighters' tactics inadvertently contributed to the disaster.

The report highlights that the method of flowing water and foam into the silo, despite manufacturer's warnings, created an explosive mixture. The silo was designed to limit oxygen, and the water application likely introduced more oxygen, stirred up dust, and suspended it in an explosive concentration. The report recommends that fire departments avoid spraying water or foam into oxygen-limiting silos and emphasizes the need for more training about the hazards associated with different silo types.

The explosion, which occurred northeast of Portland, required a massive response from 299 firefighters of 46 departments across a four-county area. The mill's co-owner, Alden Robbins, and the assistant fire chief, Wayne Woodbury, both died from their injuries. The company, a high-tech lumber manufacturer, stated their commitment to rebuilding facilities with enhanced safety measures to prevent future incidents.