08/19/2026
Media Release – Building Fire at Wastewater Treatment Plant
Incident: 26-00144
Authority: Assistant Chief Brad Schaefer, Incident Commander
Prepared by: Firefighter Dan Croft
On Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at 8:31 p.m., the Slinger Fire Department and Lifestar Emergency Medical Services were dispatched to the Slinger Wastewater Treatment Plant, located at 280 Hartford Road in the Village of Slinger, for a reported structure fire in the roof.
Crews were quickly dispatched to the scene, and the Incident Commander requested a truck company from Hartford Fire & Rescue to respond as well.
Upon arrival, a working fire was visible through a roof hatch on the influent headworks building. The first-arriving engine company quickly deployed hose lines and ladders to begin an exterior fire attack, which transitioned to an interior attack through a scuttle-hole access. After the fire was extinguished, investigation and overhaul operations were performed, including efforts to salvage property.
No injuries to firefighters were reported and no employees were on site at the time of the fire. Estimated damage is approximately $250,000.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation. The fire was largely contained to the attic, although some electrical components were also damaged.
Crews remained on scene for approximately two hours.
The Slinger Fire Department thanks the following agencies for their assistance: Hartford Fire & Rescue, Hartford Police Department, Slinger Police Department, Hartford Electric, and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office Communications Center.
Questions regarding the incident may be directed to Assistant Chief Brad Schaefer.
