Arriving units found heavy fire and smoke at the entrance to the recycling portion of this building. An initial attack was started, attempting an offensive attack at that point. Due to the amount of fire, two other points of attack had to be initiated. A ventilation hole also had to be cut over the fire’s point of origin, which helped release heat and smoke in the building.
The initial response went through the Full Still response, which brought Dixon Rural Fire, Milledgeville Fire, and Prophetstown Fire in, but had to be upgraded to portions of the Third Alarm. Other than those mentioned above, Sterling Fire ended up with the following departments on scene assisting: Dixon City Fire, Advance Ambulance, Morrison Fire, Morrison EMS, Clinton Fire, Erie Fire.
The Salvation Army, NICOR, ComEd and 800-Boardup also assisted at the scene.
The cause of the fire appears to be issues with the compactor for cardboard; however, is still under investigation. There was significant fire and smoke damage to the building, as well as the ventilation holes needed for suppression or ventilation.
One firefighter was transported to CGH and released within a few hours. This was due to dehydration and overheating and is released to return to full duty.
For further information, please contact Chief David Northcutt with the contact information below.
