Fire officials say they are investigating after separate fires damaged two houses in the Harvard area less than three hours apart late Monday evening into Tuesday morning.
The Harvard Fire Protection District responded around 10:21 p.m. Monday to the 8200 block of Nolan Street in unincorporated Harvard for a report of a structure fire.
Firefighters arrived on the scene and found smoke coming from the attached garage of a two-story split-level home, according to Harvard Fire Protection District Public Information Officer Alex Vucha.
The family of four had safely evacuated prior to the fire department’s arrival.
A small active fire was located on the rear of the home near the deck.
Firefighters quickly extinguished the fire and checked for any additional extension into the house.
The home remains habitable while repairs are being made. No injuries were reported and the fire remains under investigation.
The Harvard Fire Protection District responded around 1:13 a.m. Tuesday to a report of a structure fire in the 1200 block of 4th Street in Harvard.
Firefighters arrived within minutes and observed moderate smoke showing from the residence.
An elderly woman and her two dogs had safely evacuated before firefighters arrived.
Firefighters entered the home and located an active fire in the basement.
The fire was quickly extinguished, saving the home and nearly all of the homeowner’s belongings, Vucha said.
The cause of this fire remains under investigation and the home remains habitable. No injuries were reported.
Vucha said the fire district appreciates the assistance of multiple agencies throughout the night providing support at both incidents. “Their help played a key role in bringing the fires under control and ensuring the safety of everyone involved.”
The fire district said the incidents serve as a reminder of the importance of fire safety.
Residents are urged to test their smoke alarms regularly, have a home escape plan and practice general fire prevention year-round.