An afternoon fire in a pair of dumpsters damaged the loading dock of the Eldersburg Safeway store.

The fire, which was reported around 5:00 PM, spread to the exterior of the loading dock of the store on Londontown Boulevard, sending a thick black plume of smoke into the air that could be seen for several miles.

Upon arrival, the crew of Sykesville's Engine 123 stretched an 1 3/4 inch hose line to attack and extinguish the flames. Additional fire crews checked both the inside of the store and the roof area for any fire extension. Meanwhile, other personnel assisted in the evacuation of the store, which was accomplished without incident.

While the fire itself did not spread inside the building, there was a heavy smoke condition inside the loading dock area that required ventilating.

There were no injuries, and the cause of the fire is under investigation by the Maryland State Fire Marshal's office. The store was expected to reopen Wednesday evening.