[Press Release] : Firefighters respond to early morning fire in mobile classroom at Grant Elementary School

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
Contact: Battalion Chief Steven E. Sapp, Public Information Officer -
(573) 499-7035 

Firefighters respond to early morning fire in mobile classroom at Grant
Elementary School

COLUMBIA, MO (December 30, 2007) - Columbia firefighters were called
just before 5:40 a.m. on Sunday, Dec. 30, to a report of a fire alarm at
Grant Elementary School at 10 E Broadway, Mobile Classroom D. 

The initial dispatch protocol for a fire alarm is one engine company
and one ladder company. Upon the arrival of Snozzle 1, who reported
smoke blowing across East Broadway at 5:46 a.m., a full box assignment
consisting of an additional two engine companies, a heavy rescue squad,
and two chiefs' vehicles was dispatched. 

Firefighters reported that they forced entry into the mobile classroom
on the east side of the main building and found heavy smoke and some
fire along the east interior wall. The fire was knocked down within a
couple of minutes and the incident was under control in less then 20
minutes. 

There was heavy smoke and heat damage to the interior of the mobile
classroom. Items lost included a Smart Board, data projector, two
desktop computers, a television monitor and VCR, and a number of books
and other school related items.

Fire investigators determined the area of origin as along or near the
interior east wall, but have not issued a statement as to the cause of
the fire. Additional interviews with staff will be conducted on Monday,
Dec. 31. At this point, fire investigators believe the cause of the fire
to be unintentional. 

Preliminary damage estimates, including contents, are being pegged at
$75,000, although this estimate may be increased. It appears that the
mobile classroom will be a total loss and will have to be removed and
replaced. 

School officials will work on relocating class members when school
resumes after the holiday break later this week.

- 30 -
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