Mattoon, IL – The Mattoon Fire Department responded to a working structure fire at 415 Crestmore Avenue, Thursday early evening, July 13, 2017, at 1614 hours. Upon arrival on the scene, fire crews reported heavy smoke coming from every opening in the attic, soffit areas and windows. The crew made quick entry into the house and found fire burning in the kitchen area and was able to extinguish it rather quickly. However the fire had already burned up through an exhaust fan and into the attic area where it was free burning. Crews had to pull ceiling and cut holes in the roof to get access to the fire burning in the attic.
Fire crews made an aggressive attack on this fire and did an outstanding job in saving this structure. This very easily could have been much worse. Fire crews were faced with hot temperatures and high humidity yesterday but worked through it.
Two occupants were home at the time of the fire but made it out safely. There were no injuries reported.
The cause/origin of the fire is accidental.
Time of Call – 1614 hours
On Scene – 1619 hours
Cleared – 1839 hours
Charleston FD responded for RIT.
Mattoon Fire Department would like to remind everyone to have a working smoke alarm in the house and to practice their Home escape plan.