From the Woodstock Fire/Rescue District
Monday morning at 10:25am, the Woodstock Fire/Rescue District responded to the 1600 block of S. Rose Farm Road in unincorporated Woodstock for a reported barn fire. Firefighters arrived within 6 minutes and observed a large barn completely engulfed in heavy flames.Firefighters quickly deployed several hose lines and began a defensive operation on the structure. Due to downed power lines and strong winds, portions of the barn were initially difficult to access. A 3rd Alarm request was made through the Mutual Aid Box Alarm System (MABAS), which brought numerous fire agencies from across northern Illinois. To complicate an already large incident, the nearest fire hydrant was over 2 miles away. Multiple tenders were required to shuttle water to the scene to maintain suppression operations.A defensive operation continued for an additional 90 minutes before the fire was considered under control. Firefighters’ quick actions saved two additional structures on the property from catching fire. Overhaul crews and investigators remained on scene until 3:00pm.The structure and contents are considered a total loss. Initial damage estimates are over $1,000,000. The barn was used for storage and did not contain any animals. Thankfully, no injuries were reported. The cause of the fire is not believed to be suspicious but remains under investigation by the Woodstock Fire/Rescue District and McHenry County Sheriff’s Office.A huge thank you to all the fire agencies who responded, our dispatchers, and the McHenry County Sheriff’s Office.