09/04/2026
Approximately 3:30pm yesterday, SPOFR was alerted to a significant hazardous materials situation in the City of Newport. On-site staff did an excellent job evacuating the occupied two-story medical facility as SPOFR units arrived within minutes.
SPOFR evaluated multiple patients exposed to the toxin and ultimately transported three in stable condition. We worked closely with regional and state expertise to identify and mitigate the HAZMAT threat.
This incident necessitated a significant response for a lengthy incident but we remained backfilled and fully available for additional calls. Thank you to WA State Ecology for their expertise/advice and Pend Oreille Emergency Management for their availability for any needed assistance.
SPOFR is proud to be an "all-hazards" fire district; we have the capability and partners to mitigate more than only fire and EMS calls. Pictured is Lt/Paramedic Marie Balak, who is in her element as a certified HAZMAT technician, trained to the highest national certifications. Crews including Chief 301, E11, E31, C61, M11, M31, and C32 operated for over 3 hours and will continue monitoring throughout the next couple of days.
-Chief Shane Stocking
