Firefighters Extinguish Fire at Vacant Home

NAPERVILLE, Ill. — At 3:41 a.m. on Monday, June 3, Naperville's Emergency Communications Center (ECC) received a call reporting an outside smoke investigation in the area of 75th St. and Wehrli Road. ECC dispatched a single engine to the area to investigate. Multiple callers began reporting fire in the area. Naperville Engine 2 arrived on the scene, reported a fully involved structure fire and requested ECC upgrade the call to a general alarm at 3:51 a.m. A general alarm assignment consists of three engines, two ladder trucks, one heavy rescue squad, two medic units and two battalion commanders. Engine 2 reported a large, wood-framed, vacant, single-family residence in the 700 block of 24W. 75th St. First-arriving companies completed a 360-degree survey of the structure, provided an on-scene report, established command and began fire operations. Engine 2 also reported restricted access due to heavy overgrowth of trees and brush surrounding the home.

Due to the heavy fire on all floors and through the roof of the structure, as well as the limited access, companies on scene began defensive operations consisting of multiple large-diameter handlines and an aerial master stream placed into service. Fire companies used multiple lines in a coordinated effort to bring the fire under control within 90 minutes of the initial alarm. Companies remained on the scene for another three hours to extinguish remaining spot fires and conduct overhaul operations.

The Naperville Fire Department was assisted on the scene by the Naperville Police Department, DuPage County Sheriff's Office, Commonwealth Edison, and the Lisle-Woodridge Fire Protection District. The Aurora Fire Department and Darien-Woodridge Fire Protection District provided station coverage for Naperville during the incident. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by the Naperville Fire Department's investigations team. Damages to the home are estimated at $300,000. There was one minor injury to a firefighter who was evaluated and released. The house was deemed to be uninhabitable.

About Naperville: Located 28 miles west of Chicago, Naperville, Ill., is home to approximately 150,000 people. This vibrant, thriving city consistently ranks as a top community in the nation in which to live, raise children and retire. The city is home to acclaimed public and parochial schools, the best public library system in the country, an array of healthcare options and an exceptionally low crime rate. Naperville has ready access to a variety of public transportation, housing and employment options. The city’s diversified employer base features high technology firms, retailers and factories, as well as small and home-based businesses. Residents also enjoy world-class parks, diverse worship options, the opportunity to serve on several City boards and commissions, a thriving downtown shopping and dining area, a renowned outdoor history museum known as Naper Settlement and an active civic community. For more information, please visit our website at www.naperville.il.us.