On February 2, 2025 the Rice Lake Fire Department was dispatched to a reported barn fire at 2315 22nd Street in the Township of Rice Lake.
The first fire department unit arrived at approximately 1411 to find an approximately 45×225, single story barn, with smoke and flames showing from the center of the barn. Firefighters utilized a 1 ¾” attack line to perform an interior attack of a lean-to area located between the barn and silos. While attacking the fire, a skid-steer was found to be fully involved in the center of the barn. Additional firefighters used 1 ¾” handlines to attack the fire from the interior and exterior. Also utilized from the exterior of the structure was a 2 ½” attack line with a Blitzfire nozzle and an aerial ladder. The fire was contained in the center section of the barn with smoke and water damage throughout the building.
All fire units were placed back in service at 1945.
The cause of the fire is under investigation at this time.
An initial damage estimate for the structure and contents is placed at $550,000.
The barn was in use housing livestock along with hay and feed storage. No animals perished in the fire. 2 bull cows and 2 chickens escaped the structure with assistance from firefighters.
There were no firefighter or civilian injuries.
