United States (Georgia) - The fire station on White Road near Harlem has been closed by a severe mold infestation, officials said this afternoon. Columbia County officials said they were notified Monday morning of severe mold and mildew inside the temporary fire station.

"After investigating the problem and consulting with Fire Chief Doug Cooper and Harlem City Manager Jason Rizner, it was determined that in order to reduce exposure to the odors (intensified by the extreme heat), that the firefighters should be relocated to Engine Co. No. 8 at Clary Cut Road in Harlem," a news release stated.

The move was completed late Monday afternoon, officials said.

The service area normally covered by the White Road station will be covered by both the Clary Cut Road and Old Louisville Road fire stations, officials said. All fire and first responder services will be provided in a timely manner from these locations.

Written by The Augusta Chronicle