At 1:04AM on Thursday, April 5, Naperville’s Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) received a 911 call from a resident stating he heard a loud “boom” and then immediately heard smoke detectors sounding.
PSAP immediately dispatched a general alarm assignment bringing two engine companies, three truck companies, one squad company, two ambulances, two alternate response vehicles, and two incident commanders to the scene. The assignment brought a total of 26 personnel to the incident.
Engine Company 7 was first on the scene, within six minutes, reporting evidence of active burning in the first floor and basement of the house, but no visible flames. Companies immediately began operations to attempt to locate the origin of fire and noted multiple hot spots throughout the first floor and basement. All occupants had evacuated the residence prior to the arrival of fire department personnel which was confirmed by the first unit on scene.
Companies checked for fire extension into all areas of the residence and secured a water supply during their efforts to locate the fire. Areas with active burning were extinguished within 20 minutes of arrival on the scene and crews continued to perform salvage and overhaul operations for approximately 90 minutes. Two adults and three children were displaced as a result of damage that occurred to the first floor and basement. The American Red Cross assisted on scene and provided temporary housing options for the affected family.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation. Initial findings by on scene personnel have determined that the fire originated in the basement of the residence. There were no reported injuries to firefighters or citizens. The Naperville Fire Department was assisted at the scene by the Naperville Police Department, Naperville Electric Department, NICOR, and the American Red Cross. The Warrenville, Lisle-Woodridge, & Plainfield Fire agencies provided station coverage during this incident.
