A fire that broke out at a grocery store in West Milwaukee has been attributed to windy conditions exacerbating the situation. Initially reported as a dumpster fire, it quickly spread due to strong winds and resulted in significant damage to the building's structure and its contents.
The incident led to the evacuation of the premises and required additional firefighting resources. Smoke infiltration into the store prompted the disposal of perishable goods, raising questions about food safety protocols. The exact cause of the fire is still being investigated.
Challenging Firefighting Conditions
Strong westerly winds played a pivotal role in escalating the fire at the Pick 'n Save store located on Miller Parkway. Upon arrival, firefighters discovered that the flames had already extended beyond the original source, reaching cardboard and plastic crates stored nearby. These winds directed the flames toward the building, necessitating an immediate evacuation to ensure the safety of everyone inside.
Deputy Fire Chief Ron Firnrohr explained that the challenging wind patterns combined with the substantial amount of combustible materials at the rear of the store compelled them to request additional support. This decision was crucial in managing the blaze effectively. The roof, standing over two stories high, sustained considerable damage, particularly around the parapet area where intense heat managed to penetrate beneath the siding. Without the extra resources brought in by the second alarm assignment, containing the fire would have been significantly more difficult.
Aftermath and Community Response
Following the successful containment of the fire, employees of Pick 'n Save were observed disposing of large quantities of fresh meat and produce. It appears that smoke contamination during the incident rendered these items unsuitable for sale or consumption. While the Southwest Suburban Health Department attended the scene, it remains unclear whether they mandated the disposal or if this action stemmed from internal management decisions within Pick 'n Save.
In response to the crisis, a spokesperson for Pick 'n Save expressed gratitude towards the Milwaukee Fire Department, alongside assistance from the West Allis Fire Department and West Milwaukee Police. They highlighted their ongoing efforts aimed at reopening the store swiftly while ensuring all necessary repairs and assessments are completed. Despite the current closure, there is optimism regarding the store's ability to resume operations soon. Meanwhile, authorities continue investigating the root cause behind this unfortunate event to prevent future occurrences.