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Crews gain control over large fire at downtown Phoenix scrap yard

The fire is burning near 27th Avenue and Van Buren Street and sparked around 3 p.m.

PHOENIX — A large fire ignited in downtown Phoenix Tuesday afternoon and sent a plume of smoke into the air that could be seen for miles.

The fire sparked around 3 p.m. at a scrap yard near 27th Avenue and Van Buren Street.

Phoenix Fire said an employee at the scrap yard saw smoke emanating from a stack of crushed cars and called 911. By the time crews arrived, the stack was fully engulfed in flames.

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Video from Sky 12 showed the fire burning uncontrolled for several minutes.

Crews called in a second alarm, meaning additional resources than normal were requested to assist. Multiple ladder trucks were called in to help as well.

The fire was fully extinguished by 7 p.m., officials say. 

No one was hurt, according to authorities. But the cause of the fire is still under investigation.

This is a breaking news story. Stay with 12 News for the latest updates.

Watch video from Sky 12 below

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The Arizona Fire & Medical Authority has released tips on how to prevent fires from starting in your home. 

More than 4,000 Americans die each year in fires and approximately 25,000 are injured,” the authority said on its website. “An overwhelming number of fires occur in the home.” 

First off, the authority says that every house needs to have at least one working smoke alarm. Every level of the home and every sleeping area should have a working smoke alarm inside of it to offer the best protection. 

Appliances should also be used in a way that manufacturers recommend, since overheating, shorts and sparks can all lead to a fire breaking out. 

Lastly, families should have an escape plan from every room of the house. 

“Caution everyone to stay low to the floor when escaping from fire and never to open doors that are hot,” the authority said. “Select a location where everyone can meet after escaping the house. Get out then call for help.” 

The authority offers free home safety inspections. Schedule one with them by calling 623-544-5400. 

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