Fire departments respond to multiple-unit structure fire in Benton

BENTON, Ill., (KBSI)- At 10:41 a.m. today, Benton Fire units 800, 803, 805, 806 and 807 responded to a two-story multi-residence structure fire with heavy flames engulfing both occupancies.

A MABAS Box alarm was activated, escalating to a 4th alarm level due to low manpower across multiple aid departments. Another mutual aid department en route was diverted to address a separate structure fire in their district.

Forty-three firefighters from multiple departments worked tirelessly to contain the blaze.

Their swift response and teamwork minimized damage.

This incident highlights the crucial role of the Mutual Aid Box Alarm System (MABAS) and box cards in coordinating swift, effective responses.