Multiple fire departments respond to farm shop fire in Stoddard County

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

ESSEX, Mo., (KBSI) – The Essex Fire Department is thanking the agencies that responded to assist with a fire Monday, saying teamwork was critical as crews battled challenging conditions amid extreme heat.

Multiple fire departments responded Monday to a structure fire involving propane tanks in Stoddard County.

According to the Advance Fire Department, mutual aid tanker support was requested for a fire at a farm shop near the intersection of U.S. Highway 60 and Route FF.

Fire officials said the blaze involved propane tank exposures, creating a potentially dangerous situation for responding crews.

Firefighters from the Advance, Dexter, Essex, Bernie, Bloomfield and Morehouse fire departments responded to the scene, along with the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department and the Stoddard County Ambulance District.

No injuries were reported.

In a statement, Fire Chief Randall McCollom expressed appreciation to the firefighters, emergency medical personnel, law enforcement officers and volunteers who responded to the scene.

The department recognized assistance from the Dexter Fire Department, Bloomfield Fire Department, Advance Fire Department, Bernie Fire Department, Morehouse Fire & Rescue, the Stoddard County Ambulance District and the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Office.

McCollom said responding to emergencies in high temperatures is physically demanding and praised the commitment of those who helped protect the community.

The department also encouraged first responders and residents to stay safe and remain hydrated during the ongoing heat.