At approximately 02:54hrs Engine 23 was dispatched for the report of a fire alarm in the 10100 block of Cash Rd. Even before getting enroute communications advised that SPD units were on scene with an audible alarm and visible smoke coming from the Aramark Uniforms building resulting in the re-dispatch of the incident as a structure fire. Arriving shortly thereafter  Car #1 reported smoke showing from the bay doors and roof line of an 800' X 100' building and established the "Cash Rd. Command" on Side "A". 1st arriving Tower 22 (OIC M. Ricks), instructed to set up on the "A / D" corner, connected to the sprinkler FDC and stretched a 2" attack line thru a walk-in door after forcing entry. Upon arrival of Engine 23 (OIC Hargraves) dual 300' supply lines of 5" and 6" were laid to supply Tower 22 while Engine 21 (OIC Towne) teamed up with Tower 22 as fire attack group. With Battalion 1 (Crespo) as Division "D" Engine 23 and Quint 31 (OIC Drake) worked  to open up the numerous overhead bay doors for ventilation and access as Engine 1 (OIC Holiday) assumed R.I.T. responsibilities on the "A / D" corner. With fire attack reporting smoke conditions becoming heavier towards the rear of the structure, and after extending the attack line to 400', the main body of fire was located in the rear portion of the building within an interior fenced storage area. With sprinkler heads holding the fire in check, fire attack group forced entry into the area and asked for water on their line. Following knock down on the fire, and with Side "D" completely opened up, extension was checked and attention turned to ventilating the large open structure. Given the interior construction of the building and limited capabilities of conventional PPV fans, a request was made for the Houston FD Mobile Ventilation Unit (AKA Big Blow) as crews rotated through the tasks of opening up the bales and piles of mop heads, shop rags and other linen products. With negative extension on all sides, sprinkler system secured and company personnel on scene operating building systems ventilation was rapidly accomplished and the incident placed under control with Big Blow returned to service. Following overhaul and loading of hose and equipment all units returned to service shortly before 05:30hrs with no fire service or civilian injuries reported. During the incident Battalion 21 (Bomberger) functioned as the Safety Officer and Battalion 31 (Matthews) assisted at the command post while Engine 32 (OIC Male), requested extra, also assisted on scene. 

On a historic note this same business and building suffered a catastrophic fire in 1990 resulting in almost complete destruction of the processing and warehouse portion of the building. Because of that fire the structure was totally rebuilt with a complete automatic sprinkler system throughout which no doubt played a major role in preventing a larger incident on this date.

The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.