15-02-2025
Fire in Wisconsin destroys garage and contents, home saved despite limited personnel
MERRILL, Wis. (WFRV) – Firefighters in Wisconsin saved a home despite having limited personnel on the scene, though a detached garage and its contents were deemed a total loss.
According to the Merrill Fire Department, Engine 61 responded to the scene of a fire on Cottage Street around 5:15 p.m. on Thursday, with only two personnel. Three other on-duty staff were on a separate call with a patient who was revived and en route to a hospital.
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When Engine 61 arrived, personnel found heavy smoke and fire from behind the house in a detached garage. Law enforcement arrived on the scene to assist, and hose lines were used to stop the fire from spreading.
Mutual aid was requested from nearby departments, as the initial efforts were difficult because of the limited personnel on site. During those efforts, emergency personnel had a 'close call' with a powerline, and two police officers were evaluated at a local hospital for smoke inhalation.
Both officers were released, and no additional injuries were reported. The garage and everything in it were deemed a total loss, but the fire was contained to the garage as the house received exterior heat damage.
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The house lost power, and the occupants were able to stay elsewhere for the night. The cause is under investigation but does not seem to be suspicious. However, two bystanders were arrested for interfering with the suppression efforts.
No additional details were provided.
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