February 14, Peotone: At approximately 11:35 a.m., the Manhattan Fire Protection District (MFPD) was dispatched for a smoke investigation near a grain dryer in the 2800 block of South Rt. 45. The first units arrived on the scene within 10 minutes of the initial call for service. Fire crews reported heavy smoke showing, with no flames coming from the grain bin. A still alarm was activated for additional personnel and equipment at 11:48 a.m.
Firefighters quickly established a water supply, gained entry, and located the fire inside the grain bin. Fire companies began an offensive fire attack strategy, containing the flames and searching for hot spots within the grain. The fire was extinguished within one hour of the upgraded response call. Firefighters stayed on the scene with the plant manager for overhaul, and all workers were able to safely evacuate the premises prior to the fire companies’ arrival. No injuries were reported to civilians or firefighters.
Additional agencies were requested from the Mutual Aid Box Alarm System Division 19, which brought more equipment to the scene and station coverage from Beecher, Crete, Manteno, University Park, Matteson, Manteno, Park Forest, and Mokena Fire Protection Districts.