TINA L. SCOTT
EDITOR
According to Merrill Fire Department Chief Josh Klug, “Merrill fire units responded to 405 E. 7th St. for reported structure fire,” on Sunday, March 21. “While en route to scene, Merrill Police Department reported the fire was out.”
”Engine-62 continued to the scene,” Klug said, and found that “Bystanders and Merrill Police Officer used fire extinguishers to contain the fire. Firefighters used additional extinguishers to put out hot spots.”
“Fire was caused by careless disposal of smoking material,” he said.
The Merrill Police Department incidence report concurred. “It was found some bags of trash had started on fire causing the siding of the residence to catch fire,” the report read. “It was found the occupant had tossed a cigarette butt near the trash bags which is believed to have been the source of the fire starting.”
“Fortunately the house suffered only minor damage and no one was hurt,” Chief Klug said. “Quick work by bystander and Police Officer kept fire from spreading and causing more damage.”
Damage was limited to a relatively minor portion of the house’s exterior.
Residents are reminded the area is under High risk of fire danger and even the smallest spark can result in fires that can quickly get out of control.