Portage Big Lots Fire Contained Quickly
On Monday evening, December 9th, at approximately 7:26 PM, the Portage Fire Department was dispatched to the Big Lots store located at 5960 US Highway 6. Crews were advised upon dispatch that the building was being evacuated and that smoke and flames had been reported in the rug department, according to Portage Fire Chief Chris Crail.
Firefighters arrived on the scene at 7:31 PM to find heavy smoke throughout the building. The first arriving apparatus’ crew made entry and discovered an active fire in an aisle containing highly combustible materials, including pillows, blankets, towels, and rugs. The building’s sprinkler system was activated, helping to slow the spread of the fire. The extinguishment crew quickly brought the fire under control, fully extinguishing it by 7:39 PM. Portage FD’s aerial was positioned at the rear of the building, where crews gained roof access to ensure no fire extension. Ventilation teams used positive pressure fans to clear smoke from the building and adjacent structures, allowing safe entry for the investigation team.
Thankfully, there were no injuries reported, Crail said.
The Big Lots store remains closed at this time pending further investigation. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by the Portage Fire Department.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the Portage Fire Department or the Portage Police Department.
The Portage Fire Department extended their gratitude to the building’s occupants for their swift evacuation and to all responding personnel for their professionalism and efficiency in managing this incident.
