Fire Department

Strong winds that passed through Madison Saturday evening took down several tree branches throughout the city, in some cases causing fire and electrical hazards.

One such emergency occurred on the 5100 block of Sherven Drive. Engine Company 5 responded there after a large branch in someone’s backyard broke off and landed on some electrical and cable wires, severing services to the house.

The resident met firefighters in the driveway and explained there’d been a loud crack before the branch broke off the tree. He was sure there hadn’t been a lightning strike, and he didn’t see any smoke, flames or arcing.

MGE was asked to respond to the address. As they awaited MGE’s arrival, firefighters went door to door advising all surrounding neighbors, who still had power, of the dangerous situation in the neighborhood. They were advised to stay away from the backyard. Firefighters also lined the yard with “caution” tape.

The residents of the affected home decided to find another place to stay for the night, gathering the dogs and packing their belongings to stay at a friend’s house.