Multiple crews worked to find the source of smoky conditions at the former Monument Mills complex Tuesday morning. In a news release by the Great Barrington Fire Department, crews were dispatched at around 7:44 a.m. after receiving a commercial fire alarm for 174 Front Street, located in the Housatonic village of Great Barrington. Upon arrival at the former Monument Mills complex, crews saw light smoke conditions in the building. Due to a possible structure fire, additional personnel were called in to assist. Crews began searching all three floors to identify the source of the fire. During multiple sweeps within the building, firefighters encountered light but persistent smoke conditions in various areas, complicating efforts, Great Barrington Fire Department Lt. Brian Mead said.
Lt. Mead stated that the source of the smoke was located and was caused by smoldering books and papers that had been left on a heater. The materials were removed and safely put out. Chief Turner added, โThis is the time of year when the cool nights return and heaters are placed back into use. We encourage all residents and businesses to make sure heating equipment is clean, inspected, and clear of combustible materials to prevent similar hazards.โ
Members of the Great Barrington Police Department, Monterey and Egremont Fire Departments, as well as Southern Berkshire Ambulance and the Support Group for the Great Barrington Fire Department, assisted. Sheffield Volunteer Hose Company provided station coverage.
