MABLETON, Ga. — Two firefighters are expected to make a full recovery after suffering heat-related injuries while battling a grocery store fire.
Flames broke out at the La Casita Market on Mableton Parkway in Mableton. Two employees were also injured. We are told they were taken to the hospital and are expected to make a full recovery.
Cobb County Fire and Emergency Services has a specialized unit that responds to fire scenes to treat firefighters who may need medical attention. It is called Cobb County Fire & Emergency Services Medical Operations or MedOps.
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“Two employees of the business were taken to the hospital for smoke-related injuries, and we did have two firefighters that were treated on the scene for heat and exertion-related injuries,” said Lauren Burden, Cobb County Fire and Emergency Services.
The fire started in the kitchen on Thursday. Investigators say workers tried to put it out themselves before calling 911. Everyone was out of the building by the time firefighters arrived.
On days when the heat index climbs above 95, Cobb County fire says even the way firefighters dress for work changes.
“We have modified our uniform policy where they can wear T-shirts versus the top shirts, especially when the heat index is over 95,” Burden continued.
Cobb County is also shortening the work cycle on active fires by bringing in more crews to help spread the workload.
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