GRISWOLD, Iowa — Multiple area fire departments responded Wednesday afternoon, June 24, to a large building fire southwest of Griswold.
Griswold Fire Chief JC Wyman said crews were dispatched at approximately 4:45 p.m. to 58708 Yankton Road for a reported building fire. As Griswold firefighters left town, Wyman said they could already see heavy smoke in the area and began calling for additional help while en route.
When crews arrived, they found an approximately 80-by-80-foot steel structure fully involved with heavy fire and thick smoke.
“At that point, we knew we were fairly behind the eight ball,” Wyman said.
Wyman said firefighters quickly called for additional manpower and tanker support because of the amount of water that would be needed. Departments from across the surrounding area responded, including all fire departments in Montgomery County.
The building was described as an automotive repair shop, which created several hazards for firefighters. Wyman said there were numerous explosions during the early stages of the fire, likely from tires, oxygen and acetylene bottles, welding equipment, and other materials commonly found in automotive shops.
“There was definitely a little bit of danger right off the get-go,” Wyman said. “My firemen and everybody that came in right away did a great job of getting what we could on the fire, but yet staying safe.”
Wyman said several vehicles outside the building also caught fire, along with tire piles and other contents around the structure. Firefighters worked from multiple directions to contain the fire.
“Once everybody gets there, everybody starts working together, it just flows well,” Wyman said.
Red Oak firefighters responded with aerial support, which Wyman said played a major role in helping crews attack the fire from above.
“I think we’d have been there for eight hours if we wouldn’t have had them,” Wyman said.
Crews remained on scene for about four hours. Wyman said the building was a total loss, and numerous vehicles around the building were also destroyed.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Wyman said he has spoken with the shop owner as officials continue working to determine where and how the fire may have started.
No injuries were reported, and Wyman said no equipment broke down during the response. He also thanked the surrounding communities, volunteers, nearby farmers, and landowners who helped at the scene, including those who brought drinking water and assisted with hoses.
“Everybody pitches in to give a hand when needed, and it’s very appreciated,” Wyman said.
Pics-Kevin Carlisle
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