Firefighters tackle blaze in Villisca
Villisca, along with aid from several other area fire departments, tackled a residential blaze on Wednesday morning, May 4.
The Villisca Fire/Rescue Department was dispatched to the scene of the fire at 129 W. 4th St. at 9:07 a.m. Upon arrival, emergency responders reported heavy smoke and fire coming from the residence.
Fire was impinging on the neighbor’s house so a defensive fire ground operation was begun. Firefighters were able to quickly ascertain that the occupants had evacuated the residence.
Mutual Aid was called from Red Oak Fire/Rescue, the Stanton Fire Department and Grant Fire Department.
The fire ground operations were transitioned from defensive to offensive fire ground operations. A tremendous amount of salvage and overhaul had to be completed to get all areas of fire extinguished. The fire had extended from the first floor, through the second floor, and then into the attic space.
Fire ground operations were terminated at noon. The home’s two occupants were taken by Villisca ambulance to Montgomery County Memorial Hospital for treatment of smoke inhalation and minor injuries sustained from this event.
The residence was valued at approximately $27,000 and deemed a total loss. Total value of property inside is yet undetermined, however, it was also considered a total loss. The Red Cross was contacted to assist the residents as needed. Firefighters were able to save some family valuables and got those items returned to family members.
Iowa State Fire Marshall was contacted due to injuries being sustained by the residents and this is currently an ongoing investigation at this time.
The Villisca Fire Department was also assisted at the scene by the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, Montgomery County Communications, the Montgomery County Emergency Management Agency, Villisca Public Works, and the Villisca Electric Company.
The department also expresses its appreciation to the family members that were able to provide information concerning items within residence, as well as, layout of the home, as well as to the area companies that allow their employees to serve their communities as volunteer fire/rescue personnel.