A severe fire erupted at Tritz Pallet/Kamps Company on Industrial Road in Le Mars in the wee hours of Saturday. The company’s pallets quickly went up in flames, pushing firefighters into extended hours of firefighting operations.
The Le Mars Fire Department received the alarming call at approximately 2:30 AM. Arriving on the scene, they witnessed rising flames consuming large sections of the building. The fire had spread rapidly due to the highly flammable nature of the stored pallets.
Non-stop firefighting operations lasted the entire day. Fire personnel from neighboring cities were called in, underlining the severity of the situation. Despite the exhaustion, the undeterred firefighters managed to put out the flames and save the surrounding area.
The aftermath revealed a devastating scene. Luckily, no casualties were reported as the facility was inactive at the time. The extent of property loss nevertheless left the company in shock. The building yet has to be assessed for structural integrity, but preliminary signs indicate substantial damage.
The cause of the fire is a mystery at the moment. Experts have been called upon to scrutinize the site and find out the fire’s origin. This event serves as a reminder of the inherent risks associated with such industries and the vital importance of safety protocols and precautions.
The community response has been overwhelmingly supportive. Residents and local businesses were quick to offer assistance, demonstrating unity in the face of adversity.
Assistance was summoned from Orange City and Sioux Center Fire Departments. The collaborative effort enabled an effective response against the fire, securing public safety, and minimizing overall damage.
Despite the threat, firefighters, in full protective gear, waged an intense battle against the giant flames. Simultaneously, aerial ladder trucks doused the raging fire from above, creating a comprehensive containment strategy.
Medical teams stood by for potential casualties, and residents were promptly evacuated. The triple efforts of the Le Mars, Orange City, and Sioux Center Fire Departments finally extinguished the blaze, demonstrating their bravery and dedication.
The cause of the fire is suspected to be related to a heater that fell onto the pallets, but a full investigation is still underway. The fire resulted in an estimated $100,000 of property damage but the unit is expected to be functional after necessary repairs. Fire-Rescue Chief David Schipper emphasized the importance of regular safety checks and thanked the community for their support during this challenging time.
