Damage may exceed $3 million after lithium ion battery fire at S&C Electric in Franklin
FRANKLIN -- Officials with the Franklin Fire Department say the damage may exceed $3 million after a fire at S&C Electric Company Wednesday, August 10th.
The fire broke out around 11:00 a.m. at the facility on Franklin Drive.
Fire officials say the fire involved a bank of lithium ion batteries. They noted that these types of fires are extremely dangerous and challenging to extinguish because of how they can react with water.
More than 20 fire departments were called in to battle this fire due to the warm weather and extent of the fire.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
The damage may exceed $3 million.
One firefighter suffered an undisclosed injury while battling this fire.
Smoke could be seen billowing from the facility Wednesday afternoon.
According to its website, S&C Electric Company is a Chicago-based company that designs and manufactures switching and protecting products for electric power transmission and distribution.
Tom Qualheim, senior VP of Applied Grid Solutions issued this statement on behalf of S&C:
“At 10:58 a.m. (Wednesday), our Franklin, Wisconsin facility experienced a fire that has since been contained. Our team followed strict safety protocols and quickly evacuated all team members. We are grateful that no injuries resulted from this incident and are thankful to the local fire department and emergency response teams for their quick action and continued support.”
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