The Lincoln County 911 Communications Center dispatched the Merrill Fire Department Wednesday morning for a report of a structure fire at 409 East St., in the City of Merrill.
The initial response from Merrill Fire was Truck 63, Medic 62, and Engine 62. Merrill Police Officers advised responding units that all occupants were out of the building. The occupants could smell smoke in the residence; however, they were unable to determine the cause.
Upon fire personnel entry into the building, a discoloration of the ceiling in the kitchen near a ceiling fan was noted. Fire personnel used a pike pole to open up the ceiling and found smoldering insulation along with burnt roof joists. Fire personnel applied water to the area while exposing more of the ceiling. Utilizing a thermal imaging camera throughout the house, it was determined that heat was contained to the area of the ceiling fan. After a thorough overhaul of the area, the fire had been extinguished.
Since the power and gas was disconnected by Wisconsin Public Service for the safety of emergency responders, it left the occupants without a place to stay, until the wiring in the home could be repaired. The American Red Cross had been contacted to assist occupants with temporary living arrangements. Investigation of the cause found a short circuit of the wiring leading to the ceiling fan.