Racine Fire Department puts out blaze near near Liberty and Forest

RACINE, Wis. (CBS 58) -- The Racine Fire Department (RFD) responded to a structure fire Friday, Nov. 5, near Liberty and Forest.

Officials say RFD crews responded to the blaze around 6:52 p.m. Friday.

Authorities add that upon arrival at the fire, flames were visible out of several windows on the first and second floors of the vacant four family apartment building. 

Racine fire says that due to the significant fire size in several rooms, crews performed an initial attack from the exterior to knock the fire down. 

Firefighters then reportedly entered the structure to finish extinguishment of the blaze.

Reports show that the fire was under control in about one hour and completely extinguished in 2 hours. 

RFD indicated that the fire had travelled through the walls, attic and eaves, which made the operation more difficult.

Officials say that 22 firefighters responded to the fire using three fire engines.

The cause of the fire is reportedly under investigation as the building was vacant. 

Authorities say that the building is a total loss with a property value of $68,000. 

No injuries were reported to any civilians or firefighting personnel.

The Racine Fire Department issued a news release Friday night, Nov. 6, reminding all residents of the importance of operational smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, especially as the winter heating season approaches and furnace use begins.