Ningbo Hengnuo Hydraulic Drive Co.,Ltd , https://www.hnhydraulic.com
**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
**June 20, 2023**
**PROSPECT HEIGHTS –** On Tuesday, June 20, 2023, at approximately 12:37 p.m., the Prospect Heights Fire Protection District was called to a reported fire at 1209 N. Elmhurst Road in Prospect Heights. The incident began when residents noticed smoke coming from the rear of a multi-unit commercial building, prompting an immediate response from local emergency services.
Upon arrival, firefighters observed heavy smoke and visible flames emerging from the roof and upper levels of the structure. The building, a strip mall housing 12 businesses, was quickly engulfed by fire that spread rapidly through the ceiling and attic space. Smoke also filled several adjacent storefronts, forcing the evacuation of all occupants and nearby businesses.
Firefighters deployed multiple hose lines and used aerial ladder trucks to control the fire’s spread while working to extinguish it from within. Due to the intensity of the blaze, the incident commander activated the mutual aid box alarm system (MABAS), calling in additional firefighters from over a dozen neighboring departments to assist with containment and suppression efforts.
Thankfully, no civilians were injured in the incident. One firefighter sustained non-life-threatening injuries and received medical attention on-site. Fortunately, the apartment complex located behind the building remained unscathed throughout the entire operation.
The fire was brought under control within one hour of the initial response, using multiple hose lines, four water streams from aerial apparatus, and 26 fire engines. Firefighters then spent over three hours conducting a thorough search for any remaining hot spots or signs of rekindling to ensure the area was completely safe.
All 12 businesses in the strip mall are currently displaced, as structural damage and safety hazards must be assessed before repairs can begin. The cause of the fire is still under investigation by local authorities.
The Prospect Heights Fire Protection District is reminding the community to always have two escape routes from homes and workplaces, to maintain working smoke detectors, and to develop an emergency plan in case of fire or other disasters.
Additionally, the department emphasizes the importance of fire sprinkler systems. Had this building been equipped with sprinklers, the fire may have been contained at its source, potentially preventing significant damage and saving both lives and property.
For more information or updates on the incident, please visit the Prospect Heights Fire Department website or follow them on social media.