GRAND ISLAND, Neb. (KSNB) – The Nebraska State Fire Marshal’s Office has ruled the fire at McCain Foods as “accidental due to ongoing repair work.”
Grand Island Fire responded to the automatic fire alarm around 5:15 p.m. Friday. While there, crews were advised the roof of the plant was on fire.
Upon arrival, GIFD crews confirmed fire on the roof, as well as fire extension to the interior of the plant in the west portion of the building.
The GIFD responded to the fire with approximately 20 personnel who operated from four fire engines, two ladder trucks, two ambulances, and one battalion chief vehicle. Crews remained on scene until approximately 8:16 p.m. performing fire extinguishment and checking for fire extension.
Due to the extreme outdoors temperatures, fire personnel were rotated as much as possible during the active firefighting operations. No firefighters were injured during the emergency response but one staff member was evaluated by GIFD personnel for heat related issues.
Preliminary damage resulting from direct fire damage are estimated to be $125,000 but the total cost is expected to be higher due to stopped or limited operations at McCain Foods until all repairs can be made.
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