Letter To The Editor: B and B Bedding August 4 Fire

Oskaloosa firefighter Adam Haroldson battles the most recent B&B Bedding fire.

Letter from Ann Brouwer

The B and B Bedding fire began Saturday afternoon when a mulch pile spontaneously combusted, and strong winds from the south carried it to other mulch piles.

Thanks to the Oskaloosa Fire Department and the other agencies that responded, the fire was contained to mulch piles only. Spontaneous combustion is an ongoing problem in our industry, and we have worked hard over our 29-year history in Oskaloosa to monitor “hot spots” in our mulch piles including having our own fire truck to contain any fires that occur from spontaneous combustion and having “B and B” associates on 24 hr. watch as needed. We do deal with small outbreaks as part of the composting process and can typically contain them ourselves. The Oskaloosa Fire Department has always been on hand to assist as needed. We are very blessed in this community to have such an outstanding group of professional firefighters. This was our third large fire to occur in our history, and it took us off guard. We have not had any “activity” in our piles for a very long time. Unfortunately, we were closed when the fire occurred and was not aware of it until it was too late. We sincerely apologize for the smoke that was carried from the site and to any and all stress to our community members caused by the “B and B” fire.

Our biggest concern is always for the safety of the people on the scene. Many people assisted the fire crews by bringing food and water, providing emergency support, and offering up prayers for safety. We are immensely grateful! There are too many to name, as we would no doubt inadvertently leave someone out. We will endeavor to thank each of you personally in the days ahead. In the meantime, all of us at B and B Bedding wish to thank the professional fire crews that managed and contained the fire and for all the kindnesses shown to them, and to us.