Independence Fire Department was dispatched for a fully involved structure fire at the Independence Lumber Company (407 Lumber Lane) on Saturday, November 17, 2012, shortly after 3am. Galax Fire was dispatched at 3:33am to provide mutual aid. Engine 1, Tanker 10, and Tower 11 responded with manpower. Galax firefighters used two long lays off Engine 1, and a booster line and 1 3/4″ line off Tanker 10 to help fight the blaze. Tower 11 was cancelled while en route. Firefighters from Elk Creek, Galax, Piney Creek, and Sparta assisted Independence Fire and Rescue. Galax Fire remained on scene for approximately two hours and fifteen minutes. The business sustained heavy damage.
