http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wium/local-wium-888814.mp3
Macomb, IL – Macomb firefighters are trying to extinguish a smokey fire on the south side of the courthouse square. The fire is in the building that houses Chelsea's Hallmark and Vision Consultants Ltd.
Fire Chief Andy Taylor says there are no injuries but he is fairly certain the building will be a total loss.
Taylor believes the initial call came in around 7:15pm Wednesday. He says the first units to arrive encountered pretty heavy smoke. Conditions then got worse so firefighters went into a defensive mode. Taylor says they're trying to prevent the fire from spreading to adjoining buildings.
A ladder truck was being used to spray water into the second floor of the businesses. The roof has been ventilated to allow heat and gasses to escape.
Taylor says the fire fighting effort might be hindered by the amount of water available on the square.
Fire departments from Good Hope, Colchester, Emmet Chalmers, and Monmouth are assisting.