Heating Lamp Possibly Causes Pole Barn Blaze in May Township

A pole barn fire in May Township Sunday night may have been caused by a heating lamp used to keep chickens warm, according to the Stillwater Fire Department.

Firefighters responded to a report of a possible structure fire at 8:20 p.m. on March 10 in the 11000 block of 142nd Street North in May Township. Upon arrival fire crews reported a well involved pole barn fire and observed heavy smoke and flame billowing from the structure.

Stillwater fire crews with the assistance of several mutual aid departments brought the fire under control within 20 minutes, Fire Chief Stu Glaser said. The first arriving engine company initiated a defensive exterior attack and made a knockdown on the fire to limit extension to surrounding the area.

Several chickens were lost in the fire and a variety of tools and machinery as well, Glaser said. The estimated value of the building and contents is $30,000.

A potential cause of the fire may have been a heat lamp used to keep the chickens warm, the chief said. No injuries to responders or residents occurred.

Bayport, Mahtomedi, Hugo, and Marine fire departments assisted Stillwater Fire, along with Lakeview EMS, Washington County Deputies and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office 911 Communications Center.

The fire was reported by neighbors who called 911 and alerted the homeowners.