Sauna Fire Damages Building in Becker County

No injuries reported as fire crews respond to blaze near Frazee, Minnesota.

Mar. 23, 2026 at 11:35am

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A fire that started in an outdoor sauna damaged an adjacent steel building in rural Becker County, Minnesota over the weekend. Emergency crews from multiple fire departments responded to the incident, which occurred around 11 p.m. on Saturday, March 21 in the 51000 block of County Highway 51 about 10 miles east of Frazee.

Why it matters

Sauna fires can pose a serious risk to nearby structures, especially in rural areas where emergency response times may be longer. This incident highlights the importance of proper sauna maintenance and safety protocols to prevent such accidents.

The details

The fire is believed to have originated from the outdoor sauna, which then spread to damage an adjacent steel building. No injuries were reported, and the fire does not appear to be suspicious according to authorities.

  • The fire was reported to Otter Tail County dispatch just before 11 p.m. on Saturday, March 21.

The players

Otter Tail County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that assisted with the emergency response.

Frazee Fire Department

One of the fire departments that responded to the scene.

Wolf Lake Fire Department

One of the fire departments that responded to the scene.

Perham Fire Department

One of the fire departments that responded to the scene.

Vergas Fire Department

One of the fire departments that responded to the scene.

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The takeaway

This incident underscores the importance of proper sauna maintenance and safety protocols to prevent such fires, especially in rural areas where emergency response times may be longer.