Large fire destroys barn in Mapleton

Firefighters from four stations responded to a fire that destroyed an unoccupied dairy barn here on Dec. 23.

Drayton, Moorefield, Palmerston and Arthur fire stations were called to the blaze at Hessel Farms on Wellington Road 7 between Sideroads 16 and 17, starting at around 7:45am.

Mapleton Fire Chief Rick Richardson said the barn contained only 100 large round straw bales and some old wagons. However, he noted nearby diesel fuel tanks, a generator and a feed room were a concern to firefighters, who also worked to ensure the fire did not spread to an implement shed housing hay and large farm equipment. There was also a house and some chicken barns in the vicinity.

Drayton firefighters remained at the scene for the balance of the day to monitor the situation.