Fergus Falls, MN — The Fergus Falls Fire Department responded at 4:05 PM on Sunday January 25 to a residential fire in the 600 block of Seventh Avenue.
The fire was reported by a neighbor who seen smoke coming from the attic. Smoke was visible from the roof eves and vents upon the arrival of Fergus Falls Police and Fire Departments.
Due to the subzero temperatures, mutual aid was requested from the Elizabeth Fire Department. The homeowners were not home at the time of the fire, so police and fire crews forced entry into the home.
The first arriving Engine deployed a hose line into the interior of the home and confined the fire to the attic. The fire was knocked down within 10 minutes of arrival; however, lengthy salvage and overhaul was required to remove smoldering insulation. The fire caused significant damage around the area where it originated, with light smoke damage to the remainder of the home.
The Fire Department was assisted by the Fergus Falls Police Department, Elizabeth Fire Department, Ringdahl Ambulance, and Ottertail Power Company.
Damage estimate is $80,000.
The fire is unintentional, caused by excess heating of an electrical wire leading into the attic from a wall outlet.
The Fire Department was on scene for 3 hours and responded with 3 Engine’s, 1 Ladder Truck, 1 Rescue
Truck, and 4 command staff.
No injuries were reported.