TOP PHOTO: The thick, black smoke from this fire could be seen for miles.

Firefighters saved this new home that is very close to completion.

LAFOLLETTE, TN (WLAF) – La Follette Fire Chief Jimmy Pack knew from the beginning that his firefighters were in for a dangerous challenge; fighting an extremely hot and smoky fire in some of the warmest temperatures so far this year. “We called in off duty firefighters to help. These are tough conditions,” Chief Pack told WLAF News on the scene of the Wednesday afternoon fire.

Two firefighters, both men, were overcome with heat exhaustion, according to the chief. “Our first responders started IVs on both of them, and the Campbell County EMS transported them on to the La Follette Medical Center for further evaluation,” said Pack.

UPDATE: “They kept them at the hospital for a few hours and then released them last night. It looks like they’re going to be fine, and that’s very good news,” said Chief Pack.

Thick black smoke could be seen for miles coming from the fire that completely destroyed two large sheds behind a home that sits on a hill where King Lane and McNeely Drive intersect. Neighbors said they heard a loud boom, and their windows shook prompting them to look outside.

Quick response and fast action by LFD Firefighters likely saved two homes.

Just before 4pm the call came into 911. La Follette Fire and Police along with the Campbell County EMS and LUB responded.

Though the two sheds were a total loss, the home that sits in front of the sheds and a new construction home on the other side of the sheds were saved. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 04/20/2023-6AM)

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