Chemical-Soaked Rags Spark Five-Alarm Fire at Milwaukee School

A significant fire at Lincoln Avenue School on June 30 was caused by the spontaneous combustion of chemical-soaked rags, according to surveillance video released by Milwaukee Public Schools. The incident, which escalated to a five-alarm fire, necessitated the response of over 100 firefighters.

The blaze also led to a temporary power outage in the surrounding neighborhood. Following an investigation into the cause of the fire, officials have determined that the incident was accidental and not a result of arson. Human error was identified as a contributing factor to the event.

Surveillance footage captured the moment the chemical-soaked rags ignited within garbage cans at the school, initiating the fire. The magnitude of the fire required an extensive response from emergency services, highlighting the potential dangers associated with improperly stored or disposed of chemical materials.