Sprinklers limit damage in Cedar Rapids fire

CEDAR RAPIDS - Fire officials said sprinklers did their job Thursday night by containing a fire at a Cedar Rapids processing facility.

The fire alarm system was activated around 10:15 p.m. at SunOpta Ingredients, 1050 Wenig Rd. NE, prompting a response by firefighters. Employees evacuated without injur, and reported smoke coming from the filter receiving system on the third floor, authorities said.

Fire Department spokesman Greg Buelow said an investigation determined polyester bags inside the filter receiving system were smoldering, but sprinklers had knocked down the fire. Crews found heavy smoke inside the building, but they were able to ventilate the area, allowing employees to return to work within an hour.

Buelow said the filter receiving system removes particulates from the air while it receives product. He said the business makes dietary fiber for the baking industry.

Company personnel estimated the damage at less than $1,000, Buelow said.