The Taylorville Fire Department and mutual aid units responded to a report of a ductwork fire on the outside of Ahlstrom’s Filtration early Tuesday afternoon before 2:00. Firefighters had to battle high winds to put out the flames. Taylorville Fire Department Assistant Fire Chief Andy Goodall told Regional Radio News that the earlier response was vital as they were able to use their aerial truck to help put out the blaze quickly.

Goodall stated the fire was inside a fresh air ductwork, and attacked the flames by dousing it with water and using chainsaws to cut away the metal and insulation.

Owaneco and Stonington Fire Protection Districts also responded, along with the Pana Fire Department. Taylorville Police Officers were also on scene. Firemen went back to their respective departments around 4:00.

Goodall stated today that they had to return to Ahlstrom’s at 5:10 Tuesday evening to cool down the ductwork.

Following both trips, Goodall further reported there were no injuries to the firemen and Ahlstrom employees. There was also no structural damage to the building itself.