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Roadside sign at travel center catches fire in Upstate, fire marshal says

The article from WYFF4, titled "Roadside sign catches fire in Gaffney, fire marshal says," details an incident that occurred in Gaffney, South Carolina, where a roadside sign caught fire. The event took place on a busy road, causing significant disruption and drawing the attention of local authorities and the community. The fire marshal's office was called to the scene to investigate the cause of the fire and to ensure that it was safely extinguished.

The article begins by describing the location of the incident, which was near a major intersection in Gaffney. This intersection is known for its high traffic volume, making the fire a significant concern for both drivers and pedestrians in the area. The sign that caught fire was a large, illuminated billboard typically used for advertising local businesses and events. The fire started in the early evening, just as traffic was beginning to pick up, which added to the urgency of the situation.

Emergency services were quick to respond to the scene. Firefighters from the Gaffney Fire Department arrived within minutes of receiving the call and immediately began working to extinguish the flames. The fire was contained to the sign itself and did not spread to nearby structures or vehicles, which was a relief to both the emergency responders and the community. However, the smoke and flames caused a significant disruption to traffic, leading to temporary road closures and detours.

The fire marshal's office conducted a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the fire. Initial findings suggested that the fire may have been caused by an electrical malfunction within the sign's wiring. The sign was equipped with numerous lights and electronic components, which are known to be potential fire hazards if not properly maintained. The fire marshal emphasized the importance of regular inspections and maintenance of such signs to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The article also includes statements from local residents and business owners who witnessed the fire. Many expressed relief that no one was injured and that the fire was contained quickly. Some residents noted that they had seen the sign malfunctioning in the past, with flickering lights and occasional power outages. These observations were shared with the fire marshal, who took them into account during the investigation.

The impact of the fire on the local community was significant, albeit temporary. The road closures and detours caused by the fire led to increased traffic congestion in the area, affecting both residents and commuters. Local businesses near the intersection reported a decrease in foot traffic during the incident, as potential customers were deterred by the road closures and the presence of emergency vehicles. However, the community rallied together, with many residents expressing gratitude for the swift response of the fire department and the fire marshal's office.

The article also touches on the broader issue of fire safety in public spaces. The incident served as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and inspecting public infrastructure, such as billboards and signs, to prevent fires and other hazards. The fire marshal's office issued a statement encouraging property owners and managers to conduct regular safety checks and to report any potential hazards to the appropriate authorities.

In the days following the fire, the damaged sign was removed, and the intersection returned to normal. The fire marshal's office continued to monitor the situation and provided updates to the community through local news outlets. The incident sparked a broader conversation about fire safety and prevention, with many residents and local officials calling for increased awareness and education on the topic.

The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of community vigilance and cooperation in preventing and responding to emergencies. The quick response of the fire department and the thorough investigation by the fire marshal's office were highlighted as key factors in minimizing the impact of the fire. The incident also served as a reminder of the potential dangers posed by everyday infrastructure and the need for ongoing maintenance and safety measures.

Overall, the article provides a detailed account of the roadside sign fire in Gaffney, South Carolina, covering the immediate response, the investigation, and the broader implications for fire safety in the community. It underscores the importance of preparedness, quick action, and community cooperation in managing and preventing such incidents.

Read the Full WYFF Article at:
[ https://www.wyff4.com/article/roadside-sign-catches-fire-in-gaffney-fire-marshal-says/64960714 ]