MARSHFIELD, WI (OnFocus) – Marshfield Fire and Rescue Department (MFRD) responded to a fire incident at Masonite Architectural on March 13, 2024. The incident, which occurred at the particle board press plant located at 1401 E 4th St, Marshfield, WI, involved a large mechanical press that caught fire.
At approximately 09:53, MFRD received a report of the fire and dispatched nine personnel to the scene. Upon arrival, responders found the particle board press engulfed in flames, prompting the request for additional manpower, including Central RIT.
Efforts to suppress the fire were initiated, with the activation of the fire sprinkler system containing the blaze to its origin. Interior attack teams entered the plant and extinguished the press fire. Further investigation revealed fire extension in the ductwork above the press and in the attic space it traversed.
To address these additional fires, MFRD utilized a ladder truck to access the roof of the building. Fire suppression efforts were then conducted through access hatches and by creating access holes in the roof, utilizing hand lines and an integrated fire suppression system within the ductwork.
A total of 17 personnel, comprising 14 MFRD members and 3 Central RIT from Vesper Fire, responded to the incident. MFRD remained on scene for 6.5 hours, working to ensure the safety of the premises and surrounding areas.
One Masonite employee received treatment for smoke inhalation but was released on scene. No fire service personnel sustained injuries during the operation. However, the large press suffered significant fire damage, while the roof of the building incurred damage during firefighting efforts. Minor damage was also observed on an adjacent piece of machinery. Additionally, substantial water accumulation from sprinkler systems and attack lines was noted within the building.
The complexity of the incident, compounded by the presence of multiple fires, posed challenges for MFRD in locating and extinguishing the flames. Furthermore, concurrent emergency responses within the city resulted in a temporary shortage of manpower.
The prompt and coordinated response by Marshfield Fire and Rescue Department was instrumental in containing and extinguishing the industrial fire at Masonite Architectural. The investigation into the origin and cause of the fire is ongoing.
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Author: News Desk
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