Oklahoma paper mill catches fire

Atlanta-based Georgia-Pacific’s paper mill in Muskogee, Oklahoma, caught on fire on May 13. Karen Cole, senior manager of corporate communications at Georgia-Pacific, says a portion of the mill’s warehousing and converting area were damaged in the fire.

Cole adds that the company doesn’t yet know the extent of the damage or cause of the fire, but officials expect it started with a propane-powered forklift. The company expects to have more information after a detailed investigation. 

“Our first priority is making sure things are secure and safe, so operations are temporarily suspended,” Cole says.

About 65 employees and contractors were on site during the fire, Cole says. All were safely evacuated from the area. She says three Georgia-Pacific employees and two contractors were transported to the hospital as a result of the incident. Two of those who were sent to the hospital stayed overnight for observation but are stable.

“Our team on the ground deeply appreciates all the support from our local first responders,” Cole says. 

About 800 employees work at the Georgia-Pacific Muskogee mill. The mill makes paper products such as paper towels and napkins.