Madison Reporter

Crews responded to a fire at a Madison complex on Monday evening, where a sprinkler system played a crucial role in containing the blaze. The incident occurred at The Standard Madison apartment complex, a mixed-use building located at 1868 E. Washington Ave.

According to Fire Marshal Bill Sullivan, "The sprinkler system did its job. The sprinkler head closest to the fire activated, contained the fire to the area of origin, notified the occupants of the building through the fire alarm system and notified Dane County 911 whom dispatched Madison Fire to the scene for final extinguishment and clean up."

The fire was identified after heavy smoke was observed coming from a bar under construction within the building. Firefighters quickly responded to the situation and utilized a water can for the final extinguishment of the fire. The incident highlighted the importance of a functional sprinkler system, especially in buildings under construction.

The cause of the fire was determined to be spontaneous combustion due to the improper disposal of oil and stain-soaked clothing. Fortunately, no residents were displaced, and other businesses within the building were able to resume operations as scheduled.