A family was left homeless after a fire fully engulfed a backyard gazebo and then spread to a house, causing approximately $100,000 in damage, in Zion Wednesday afternoon.
The Zion Fire Rescue Department and Zion Police Department responded around 1 p.m. Wednesday to the 3400 block of Harbor Ridge Drive in Zion for a report of a structure fire.
Zion Fire Rescue Department Lt. Matt Henby said an exterior gazebo caught fire and was spreading to a house.
Firefighters arrived to find the large gazebo fully engulfed in flames and it had already spread to the garage of the home.
Fire crews were able to quickly contain the fire from spreading further into the house, Henby said.
Extensive salvage and overhaul of the siding and other parts of the home were completed to ensure that the fire had not spread further.
The American Red Cross was notified and is assisting the family with alternative living arrangements due to the home being declared uninhabitable, Henby said.
The Zion Building Department also assisted with evaluating the condition of the home.
The Beach Park, Winthrop Harbor and Newport fire departments assisted at the scene. Zion ESDA also responded to assist with rehab and refreshments for firefighters.
No injuries were reported, Henby said. Approximately $100,000 in damage was caused.
The fire was determined to have started in or around the gazebo but the exact cause has not been determined.
“While the exact cause of this fire is undetermined at this time, the Zion Fire Rescue Department is reminding residents that fire safety begins at home. While firefighters are prepared to respond at any hour, the most effective way to reduce injuries and property loss is through prevention and preparedness,” Henby said.
Residents are encouraged to take simple steps that can make a life-saving difference, including testing smoke and carbon monoxide alarms every month and replacing them if they are more than 10 years old.
Residents should also practice a home escape plan with everyone in their household. “Know two ways out of every room and designate a meeting place outside.”
Residents are also encouraged to keep cooking areas clear of combustible materials and never leave food cooking unattended. “Ensure your home’s address is clearly visible from the street so emergency responders can quickly locate your residence.”
Other safety tips include keeping fire hydrants accessible, teaching children not to play with lighters or matches and considering learning CPR and basic first aid.
The Zion Fire Rescue Department offers public education programs throughout the year, including fire safety presentations, CPR instruction, fire extinguisher training, station tours and Fire Prevention Week activities for schools and community groups.