APPLETON, WI – A fire at the Outagamie County Jail on Saturday started in a dryer.
Officials were called out for the basement of the Outagamie County Administration Building where they found the basement and the first level filled with smoke.
The fire was located and extinguished, but the process of removing the smoke included use of ventilation fans and remote controlled HVAC and exhaust systems.
The Fire Department says oil soaked rags were what caused the fire.
They say it started from spontaneous heating and is an example of how oil can survive the washing process and start a fire.
Fire officials say rags that are contaminated with oil should be stored in metal containers and tight lids and laid flat or hung to dry after washing.
The jail and communication center remained in operation during the time that crews were working.
Nobody was hurt and the estimated damage is $4,500.
