Effingham, IL-(Effingham Radio)- The Effingham Fire Department received a call at 10:37 a.m. for a report of an apartment building on fire in the 300 block of North Oak Street. The fire was reported by a neighbor across the street. Upon arrival, first arriving crews had light smoke showing from the front of the structure and heavier smoke and flames from the rear of the structure.
The structure is a six-unit apartment building.
Fire crews performed an aggressive interior fire attack and were able to quickly bring the fire under control. Crews worked to check for occupants in the building and conducted a primary search, confirming all occupants were out of the structure.
The fire originated on the first-floor rear porch area of apartment 308 and was contained to the apartment and the area of origin. Firefighters completed overhaul operations and checked for extension. Forced entry was made into multiple apartments to ensure there were no occupants inside.
Crews were on scene for just under one hour. Ameren Electric responded to the scene and secured power to the affected apartment.
The fire was determined to be accidental, and damage is estimated at $40,000. Two occupants were displaced as a result of the fire. The Effingham Fire Department was assisted by the Effingham Police Department, Rural Med EMS, Teutopolis Fire Protection District, Shumway Fire Protection District, and Ameren Electric. There were no injuries.
- Cause: Accidental
- Estimated Damage: $40,000
- Displaced Residents: 2
- Injuries: None
Brant Yochum – Fire Chief, Effingham Fire Department
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