Structure Fire in the 1800 Block of Syracuse Avenue

NAPERVILLE, Ill. — At 2:40 p.m. on Friday, May 16, Naperville’s Emergency Communications Center (ECC) received a call reporting a fire. Several additional callers confirmed a large volume of fire and smoke coming from the rear of a home on the 1800 block of Syracuse Avenue. A general alarm response was dispatched, consisting of 10 pieces of fire apparatus and 24 personnel. While fire crews were en route, the homeowners and their pets safely evacuated the building.

The first fire unit arrived at 2:47 p.m. and encountered significant fire and smoke conditions at the rear of the structure. Firefighters quickly deployed multiple hose lines to contain and extinguish the blaze. However, strong winds complicated suppression efforts. At 3:20 p.m., the response was escalated to a box alarm, adding five more vehicles and 14 personnel to the scene.
The fire was brought under control and deemed extinguished at 4:03 p.m. Fire personnel remained on the scene for an additional 20 minutes to check for any remaining hot spots.

Fortunately, there were no injuries to residents, pets, or firefighters. However the Naperville Transportation, Engineering, and Development Team has declared the building uninhabitable. Damage is estimated at more than $300,000. The fire displaced two adults and two children. The cause of the blaze remains under investigation.

The Naperville Fire Department was assisted at the scene by the Naperville Police Department, Aurora, Lisle Woodridge, Darien Woodridge, Plainfield, Lockport, and Oswego Fire Departments. Station coverage during the incident was provided by Wheaton, Westmont, Warrenville, Bolingbrook and Plainfield.

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.