SEQUIM — Quick work by firefighters one night last week ensured that the opening ceremonies for the new Home Depot in Sequim would go on as scheduled Wednesday evening.
They were able to douse a small blaze on the roof of the new building before it could turn into something more serious.
A halogen lamp that had been left on ended up face down near a pile of wood. It ignited a section of the roof and the lumber.
Personnel from Clallam County Fire Protection District No. 3 responded quickly, but once crews reached the scene a problem surfaced — none of their equipment could lift them to the roof safely to fight the flames.
Fortunately, since the store was still a construction site, a heavy lift was on hand that could reach the roof.
Firefighters were able to contain the fire to a small area.
Little-discussed impact
The incident highlights an aspect of growth that’s not discussed much beyond City Council meetings and planning sessions — along with the higher tax revenue and greater civic profile, development also increases demand for public services such as roads, police and fire protection.
The Home Depot opened Wednesday night with a community reception at its store on West Washington Street and River Road. A new Wal-Mart has been open across Washington Street since last year.
Long before construction started, plans were in the works to accommodate the increased infrastructure needs, and many of those plans are already in place.
Sequim’s budget this year includes funding for two new police officers.
