Effingham, IL-(Effingham Radio)- On March 30, 2026, at approximately 7:48 PM, the Effingham Fire Department identified a fire on the porch of a residence at 410 W Edgar Avenue following department training activities near the fire station.
Fire department personnel immediately notified dispatch and responded with water extinguishers, extinguishing the fire within approximately one minute of discovery.
The fire was contained to the porch and the area beneath it, preventing extension into the residence. Crews conducted overhaul operations, removing decking materials to check for any hidden fire extension. No extension into the home was found.
The residence was occupied at the time of the fire, including a resident with limited mobility near the area of origin. Due to the quick actions of responding personnel, the fire was contained before it could extend into the home. No injuries were reported.
The fire has been determined to be accidental in nature and is believed to have been caused by improperly discarded smoking materials. Estimated damages are approximately $4,000.
This incident highlights the importance of properly disposing of smoking materials and demonstrates how quick action can prevent a small fire from becoming a much larger incident.
- Cause: Accidental
- Origin: Area below porch
- Injuries: None
- Estimated Damage: $4,000
Brant Yochum
Fire Chief, Effingham Fire Department
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