MASON CITY — A Mason City homeowner’s determination to track down the source of a mysterious burning smell is being credited with preventing what could have become a devastating house fire Wednesday evening.
The Mason City Fire Department was dispatched at approximately 7:43 p.m. Wednesday, July 15, to a residence at 843 Fifth St. SW after the homeowner reported smelling smoke in a second-floor bedroom.
According to the fire department, the homeowner first noticed an unusual odor earlier in the evening but did not ignore it. Instead, he continued searching for the source until he spotted light smoke coming from an exterior gable vent.
The homeowner immediately called 911, shut off electrical power to the home and safely evacuated everyone inside before firefighters arrived.
Fire crews traced the smoke to the attic, where they removed sections of the upstairs bedroom ceiling and discovered smoldering cellulose insulation hidden above the drywall.
Firefighters removed the burning insulation before the fire could spread through the attic.
Damage was limited to the sheetrock ceiling and burned insulation.
Investigators determined the fire was caused by an electrical problem.
No injuries were reported.
Firefighters remained on the scene until approximately 9:34 p.m.
The Mason City Police Department and Alliant Energy assisted at the scene.
Fire officials praised the homeowner’s quick thinking and persistence.
“The fire department credits the homeowner for being diligent in continuing to search for the cause of the smell and actions taken, as the outcome could have been much different,” the department said.
The Mason City Fire Department also reminded residents to regularly test smoke detectors and ensure they are working properly, noting that early detection remains one of the most effective ways to prevent injuries and major property loss during a house fire.