MUSCATINE, Iowa – The Muscatine Fire Department battled below zero temperatures in extinguishing a house fire early this morning (January 16, 2024). There were no injuries to occupants or to responders.
The Muscatine Joint Communications Center (MUSCOM) received a 911 call at approximately 1:07 a.m. today for a house on fire at 608 West Seventh Street. Upon arrival fire crews found the residents out of the house. Crews initiated an aggressive interior fire attack and followed that with actions to find hidden fire.
The main body of the fire was found in a difficult to access attic space. The fire did extend into portions of three upstairs rooms but that fire extension was quickly found and extinguished. The majority of the fire was under control within 15 minutes but searching and extinguishing hidden fire continued for another two and a half hours. Extreme weather conditions with below zero temperatures created additional challenges for firefighting activities.
There were no injuries to occupants or responders.
Crews remained on scene through the night and the on-scene investigation is expected to be completed this morning. A cause has yet to be determined but it does appear to be an accidental fire. The initial fire loss estimate is $100,000.
The Muscatine Fire Department had 14 firefighters who responded to the scene as well as a call back of off duty members to staff the station and provide assistance to crews on scene. The Fruitland and Wilton Fire Departments assisted on scene as well.
The Muscatine Police Department assisted with the initial call, and Muscatine Public Works staff responded to address icy conditions on the street caused by water runoff. The building was secured by 1-800-BOARD UP.
About the Muscatine Fire Department:
The Muscatine Fire Department provides fire and emergency medical services, rescues (high angle, rope, water, etc.), building inspections, and public education for the City of Muscatine, and the surrounding unincorporated areas of Muscatine County with a combined population of 43,000 across 145 square miles while also providing HAZMAT for Muscatine, Louisa, Washington, Keokuk, and Henry counties. MFD firefighters and paramedics responded to over 5,700 calls in 2023. The Muscatine Fire Department began as a volunteer fire company on January 7, 1875 and was established as a full-time department in January 1916.