Ames Fire Department Responds to Two Fires

Ames firefighters responded to two fires over the Fourth of July holiday weekend.

Fire crews responded to the Resource Recovery Plant, 110 Center Ave., at 6:35 a.m. today (Tuesday, July 5) for a structure fire. Employees reported smoke coming from the dust recovery system. When crews arrived, they found light smoke inside the east side truck doors. Plant employees were able to take the crews to the fire area, and firefighters were able to use thermal imaging cameras to locate the fire and hot spots. Plant employees assisted by cutting holes in the ductwork to gain access so firefighters could extinguish the fires. No injuries were reported. Shortly after clearing the smoke, Resource Recovery staff were able to resume processing garbage. There was no impact to receiving garbage.

"We would like to remind residents that garbage processed at our facility should never contain flammable or potentially explosive materials. Lithium batteries and fireworks can be brought through our car line for safe, free disposal," said Resource Recovery Plant Superintendent Bill Schmitt.

Fire crews responded to a report of smoke at 9:33 p.m. on Monday, July 4, at 2305 Stone Brooke Road. Firefighters arrived on scene to find the garage filled with smoke and a two-yard dumpster with smoldering contents. Crews rolled the dumpster outside and quickly extinguished the fire.

Ames firefighters reminds all residents to check smoke detectors monthly and have a fire extinguisher easily accessible. Fire extinguishers are one part of a fire response plan, but the first priority is escape. Every household should have a home fire escape plan and working smoke alarms.