A resident was hospitalized and firefighters battled a fire in subzero temperatures that left residents displaced from a house near Marengo Saturday evening.
The Harvard Fire Protection District responded around 6:37 p.m. Saturday to the 900 block of Echo Trail in unincorporated Marengo for a report of a structure fire.
Harvard Fire Protection District Public Information Officer Alex Vucha said the 911 caller reported smoke inside the home but the source was not known.
Firefighters arrived on the scene and initially observed nothing showing from the exterior of the two-story residence.
Vucha said crews made entry into the home and located a fire on the second floor in the ceiling area near the chimney.
Flames were then observed extending from the chimney cap and smoke was coming from the attic.
Vucha said the subzero temperatures, rural location and potential for fire extension within the home prompted an upgrade through the Mutual Aid Box Alarm System to the box alarm level to request additional resources.
The resources assisted with fire suppression, overhaul operations, scene support and change of quarters coverage.
The fire was extinguished within approximately 35 minutes but overhaul and fire investigation operations continued for an additional two hours, Vucha said.
Firefighters were able to contain the fire to the ceiling area near the chimney but the residence sustained smoke and water damage throughout and was deemed uninhabitable until repairs can be completed.
Two adult residents were displaced as a result of the fire and are receiving assistance from family.
One resident was transported to a local hospital for evaluation and treatment of minor smoke inhalation.
“Thank you to all fire departments and public safety agencies that responded or assisted with change of quarters, as well as the dispatchers who coordinated the response,” Vucha said.
The Harvard Fire Protection District said they encourage residents to have chimneys regularly cleaned and inspected, particularly in homes that rely on fireplaces or wood-burning appliances during the winter months.
Regular inspections can help identify hidden issues, such as creosote buildup or structural concerns, before they lead to a fire, the fire district said.
No firefighter injuries were reported. The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Harvard Fire Protection District.