CLEAR LAKE — A fast-moving garage fire caused an estimated $200,000 in damage Friday afternoon in Clear Lake, but firefighters were able to stop the flames before they caused significant damage to the attached home.
The Clear Lake Fire Department was dispatched at 4:28 p.m. Friday, October 2, to 2310 16th Avenue North after a garage fire was reported.
When firefighters arrived, the attached garage was fully engulfed in flames.
Crews launched a rapid interior attack and quickly knocked down the blaze, preventing it from spreading further into the residence.
The fire was contained to the garage, according to the department.
Damage was estimated at approximately $200,000 and included damage to the garage structure as well as vehicles that were inside.
The residence itself was protected from significant fire damage, which firefighters credited to the quick response and rapid knockdown.
The Clear Lake Fire Department responded with two pumpers, two medic units and a command vehicle.
The Ventura Fire Department provided mutual aid with two additional apparatus.
Also assisting at the scene were the Clear Lake Police Department, Clear Lake Public Works, Alliant Energy and Cerro Gordo County Emergency Management.
The fire was initially reported by neighbor Bryce Biermann, whose quick 911 call helped get emergency crews moving toward the scene.
Firefighters also recognized Biermann and several boys who remained at the scene after the blaze was extinguished and helped crews pick up and roll fire hose.
The department said their willingness to lend a hand was appreciated.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
No injuries were reported in the department’s initial release.