Fire shuts down factory line in Howland

HOWLAND -- A fire of undetermined cause closed the galvanize line at WCI Steel Inc. on Pine Street Southeast Monday.
Tim Roberts, company spokesman, said it was uncertain when the line will resume operations. Fire officials said the blaze started in a 480-volt transformer and spread to overhead wiring.
Howland and Warren Township and Lordstown firefighters responded and a second alarm brought in Bazetta and Weathersfield firefighters.
Seven WCI employees were treated at the scene, and one firefighter was taken to Forum Health Trumbull Memorial Hospital for observation as a result of the blaze that broke out shortly after 9 a.m in the motor room, where it was confined. The line applies zinc to the steel as an anti-corrosive.