Welding Torch Probably Caused Amcor Fire

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A spark from a welding torch ignited insulation causing a fire at Amcor Rigid Plastics on Bell Avenue Monday, according to the Ames Fire Department.

The fire spread into the insulation behind the plants corrugated metal walls making fighting the fire difficult. Firefighters arrived just before 8 a.m. Monday and were told that a fire broke out in the plant's second story, where contractors had been welding.

Scott Siberski, Ames Fire Department Commander, said insulation was being installed on duct work and insulation was ignited during the “arcing” process.

Firefighters remained on the scene until almost 1 p.m. Monday. No one was injured but one Ames firefighter was treated for heat exhaustion and others were treated for heat stress on the scene, Siberski said.

A damage estimate is not yet available.

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UPDATED: Ames And Nevada Battle Amcor Fire