The Merrill Fire Department was dispatched at 1:37 this afternoon for a report of the General Fire Alarm at Weinbrenner Shoe Factory, 108 S. Polk St., in the City of Merrill. Initial response from Merrill Fire Department included Engine 62, Medic 62, and Truck 63. While enroute the Merrill Incident Commander was advised there was a report of smoke in the building. Command requested mutual aid with a Corning Fire Engine, WPS and Tomahawk EMS was requested to stage in Irma. Upon arrival command was assumed by Engine 62 which reported smoke showing from the rear of the building. Merrill Police Department provided traffic and scene control and sand for the ice conditions on the road.
Initial fire operations included an offensive attack, extinguishing the fire from the interior of the building. A total of two 1¾” hose lines along with a piercing nozzle were used. The fire was contained to an exhaust duct system.
Interviews were conducted with the business maintenance workers and staff. No injuries to citizens, law enforcement or fire service personnel were reported. The amount damage to building and contents is undetermined. The cause of the fire is under investigation.