ST. JOHNS – Firefighters from three departments battled a motel fire in brutal conditions on Saturday, June 22.
The St. Johns Fire Department said in a statement its firefighters along with those from the Dallas Township and Elsie fire departments fought the blaze that happened about 3:30 p.m.
The single-story structure with numerous motel rooms at 1212 N. Business 27 was severely damaged by the fire, although the department did not make a damage estimate in its statement.
“Fire crews arrived to find active fire conditions within the structure, including heavy fire in the attic space, which contributed to the rapid spread through the building, St. Johns Fire Chief Kevin Douglas said. “High winds and extreme heat further intensified the situation, creating challenging conditions that required an aggressive, coordinated response.”
Clinton Transit, the public bus agency, provided a bus so first responders could get relief from the heat. Temperatures in the high 80s and low 90s have blanketed the area and aren’t expected to ease until midweek.
Seven other fire departments assisted by providing standby coverage.
The motel issued a statement on its’ Facebook account.
“St Johns Motel would like to thank everyone who dropped everything yesterday to come help or simply lend support during the fire at our motel. Our first concern was getting everyone to safety and getting their vehicles to safety as well.. we are so thankful everyone is ok. Over the years we have had the motel the guests and residents that have stayed there have become family.. and no matter where we meet on the streets stores and markets of St Johns after your stay .. you are still our family.. The concern from our neighbors close by to the motel was so appreciated.. when there are no words, there was thoughtful kindness and love. Thank you.. That kindness will stay with us forever..”
This article originally appeared on Lansing State Journal: Several fire departments fight St. Johns motel fire in difficult conditions
Reporting by Lansing State Journal staff / Lansing State Journal
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
