Clarendon County Fire and Rescue (CCFR) responded to a significant fire at the Georgia-Pacific plant located at 8250 Sumter Highway early Thursday morning. The fire, which broke out around 3 a.m., involved a large dry storage bin containing strands of oriented strand board (OSB), according to CCFR Chief Michael Johnson.
Upon arrival, firefighters encountered the storage bin well-engulfed in flames. Chief Johnson reported that CCFR deployed five engines, a ladder truck, and approximately 30 firefighters to the scene. As of 3 p.m., 12 hours into their firefighting efforts, crews continue to work tirelessly to suppress the fire.
In response to the escalating situation, the Sumter Fire Department was called in to provide additional support. They contributed an extra engine, ladder truck, and personnel to assist in the containment efforts. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported among the firefighters or plant personnel.
Chief Johnson expressed gratitude for the local restaurants and various Clarendon County agencies that have stepped up to support the firefighters by providing much-needed food and water during the prolonged operation.
Georgia-Pacific, a global leader in manufacturing tissue, pulp, packaging, and building products, announced a $40 million expansion of their Clarendon County operations in August of 2022. The facility, which processes wood logs into strands for OSBs, added a third strander to boost its throughput capacity as part of this expansion. Georgia-Pacific has been a significant employer in South Carolina, operating five manufacturing facilities across the state and employing over 900 individuals.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation as crews continue their work at the site.
