ESTHERVILLE, IOWA – An Estherville house fire inside a kitchen chased the residents and pets out of the structure, but one person had to go to the hospital to be checked out.
On December 3, 2024, the Estherville Fire Department responded to a residential house fire at 1321 N 12th Street. Emmet County Dispatch reported that the fire originated from the kitchen stove, with residents inside attempting to rescue their pets.
Upon arrival, a fire officer entered the home with a fire extinguisher to assist the occupants and performed an initial knockdown of the stove fire. All residents and pets were safely evacuated. The first engine company conducted a thorough extinguishment and ventilated smoke from the residence, checking for fire extension beyond the kitchen. The kitchen sustained significant fire damage, with heavy smoke affecting the entire house.
Firefighters remained on scene for approximately two and a half hours. One resident was transported by ambulance for medical evaluation. Preliminary investigation suggests the fire was caused by an accidentally activated stove burner igniting combustible materials placed atop it.
The Estherville Fire Department received assistance from the Estherville Police Department, Wallingford Fire Department, Estherville Ambulance Service, and Estherville Electrical Department.
Kitchen Stove Fire Safety Tips:
-Stay Attentive: Unattended cooking is the leading cause of kitchen fires. Always remain in the kitchen while frying, grilling, or broiling food.
-Maintain a Clear Cooking Area: Keep flammable items such as oven mitts, wooden utensils, towels, and food packaging away from the stovetop.
-Dress Safely: Avoid wearing loose clothing or long sleeves that can catch fire while cooking.
-Manage Heat Levels: If you see smoke or the grease starts to boil, turn off the burner.
-Be Prepared: Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen and ensure smoke alarms are installed and functioning properly.
(TOP PHOTO of fire scene via Estherville Fire Department)