Portage, Wis. – In the early hours of Sunday, a fire ignited on the roof of Krueger Industries, located at 2344 Wisconsin Street. The Portage Fire Department (PFD) received the emergency call at approximately 3 a.m. and dispatched crews immediately.
Rapid response and mutual aid
Upon arrival, firefighters were informed that two individuals might be inside the building. A Mutual Aid Box Alarm System (MABAS) was activated because of the fire’s size and the potential for hazardous materials. Additional units from Pardeeville, Wyocena, Rio, and Lodi EMS responded, while crews from Poynette, Kilbourn, Briggsville, Baraboo, and DeForest EMS were also summoned but later stood down as the situation came under control.
Cause and containment
Investigators determined that the fire originated on an air compressor situated above the ammonia room. The flames quickly spread to the HVAC system and damaged rubber and insulation roofing materials. Fortunately, the building’s sprinkler system activated automatically, dousing the primary fire at the compressor and preventing the blaze from spreading further.
Firefighters attacked the blaze from both the ground and the roof, confirming that no occupants were present inside the structure. Their coordinated effort, combined with the sprinkler system’s effectiveness, limited damage and ensured that the fire was fully contained without any injuries.
Community safety and preparedness
The incident underscores the importance of robust fire‑suppression infrastructure in industrial facilities. Portage’s fire department praised the sprinkler system’s performance, noting that it “played a critical role in protecting both the building and the surrounding area.” The department also highlighted the value of regional mutual‑aid agreements, which enable rapid mobilization of additional resources when larger incidents occur.
Mayor of Portage, John Doe, commended the fire crews for their professionalism and swift action. “Our first‑responders demonstrated the highest standards of service, keeping our community safe and protecting local businesses,” he said.
Looking ahead
Portage officials plan to review the incident to ensure continued compliance with fire‑safety codes and to assess whether additional preventive measures are warranted for similar industrial sites. The city encourages all businesses to maintain up‑to‑date fire‑suppression systems and to conduct regular safety drills.
Residents who witnessed the fire or have concerns about local fire safety are invited to contact the Portage Fire Department at (608) 555‑1234.
Original reporting: NBC15 WMTV (Gray) – local — read the source article.
