This initiated a structure fire response for the Sterling Fire Department, with automatic aid from the Rock Falls Fire Department, CGH EMS and the Whiteside County Sheriff’s Department. A full-still response of the Dixon Rural Fire Protection District, Milledgeville Fire Protection District and Prophetstown Fire Protection District was also dispatched following the automatic aid dispatch.
While en route, a large column of smoke could be seen a few miles away, and a MABAS (Mutual Aid Box Alarm System) Box 20 to the Box Alarm level was called for. This brought Dixon City Fire, Morrison Fire, Polo Fire, Tampico Fire and Advance EMS to the scene. Amboy Fire, Chadwick Fire and Franklin Grove Fire all stood by at Sterling and Rock Falls fire stations for the duration of the incident.
The crews were advised that no animals were in the barn and all occupants were accounted for. With the amount of fire involved, a defensive operation was initiated and continued throughout the incident.
The barn and its contents were a total loss. The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Sterling Fire Department. Neighbors assisted with equipment to open the walls of the barn, as well as spread the hay out for extinguishment.
No occupants, animals, or responders were injured during the incident.
For further information, please contact Fire Chief David Northcutt with the contact information below.
David Northcutt
Fire Chief
Sterling Fire Department
dnorthcutt@sterling-il.gov
815-632-6680
