The Morton Fire Department responded to a structure fire in the early morning hours of December 17, 2006. Upon arrival, 2C31, Assistant Chief Gary Zinmeister, reported that a large building was fully involved and established command. Morton responded with Pumpers 215 and 216 and Rescue 218. Hamlin responded, as the mutual assistance company, with Pumper 243. Rescues were requested from Holley and Kendall for manpower.

Mortons pumper 215 caught a hydrant in front of the structure and proceeded down a single driveway where it began a blitz attack using the mounted deluge set on the apparatus. Hamlin laid in from a hydrant east of the structure and stretched a 4" line to the Morton pumper. Both rigs stretched hand lines into the scene. Morton’s rescue 218 located into the driveway & provided scene lighting. Firemen were hampered by exploding propane tanks, an open gas line and a large amount of burning product. Due to the amount of fire and the above conditions, operations remained defensive throughout the incident. The Kendall and Holley crews provided operations, firefighter safety (RIT), and overhaul support to the Morton and Hamlin firefighters.

The building housed a honey processing and candle business. The entire structure, equipment and inventory were destroyed. Luckily the owner reported that his bee stock was located outside of the building and was not harmed and that insurance would cover the loss.

Photos and Story © Jerry Clement