DATE & TIME: October 20, 2023 @ 7:55
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
ADDRESS/LOCATION: 3075 Olde Country Ct.

The Dubuque Emergency Communications Center received a 911 call on Friday, October 20, 2023, at 7:55 AM from a homeowner of single-family residence reporting a fire in the basement with smoke detectors activated. The Dubuque Fire Department was dispatched to the scene at 7:56 AM. Initial responding vehicles included Engine 502, Ladder 512, Medic 554, Engine 503, Command 528, Engine 501, and Ladder 511. The response brought 17 firefighters in total on the initial alarm.

The first unit, Engine 502, arrived on scene within 4 minutes of dispatch, established command, conducted a size up reporting nothing showing from the exterior with all occupants out. Upon looking inside the front door, heavy black smoke was reported. Initial fire crews entered the structure with a hose line and discovered low heat with thick black smoke in the basement. The attack crew had the fire knocked down within 10 minutes of arrival. Crews worked to clear the residence of smoke and confirmed no further extension beyond the appliance. The Dubuque Fire Marshal responded and determined the fire was a dehumidifier that malfunctioned. The building was determined to be habitable though had smoke damage throughout. Fire crews rescued one dog who was evaluated at a local animal hospital. Two cats were observed roaming the house after the house was cleared.

The Dubuque Fire Department was assisted on scene by the Dubuque Police Department. No firefighters were injured.

Media Contacts:  
Division Chief Dave Grass, 563.589.4172, Dgrass@cityofdubuque.org
Fire Marshal Kevin Esser, 563.589.4161, Kesser@cityofdubuque.org

Please do not reply to this message. For incident-specific information, please contact the staff identified in the message above.  For general fire and emergency medical services information, visit www.cityofdubuque.org/fire or contact the Dubuque Fire Department at 563.589.4160 or fire@cityofdubuque.org.  

In an emergency, always call 9-1-1. For non-emergency dispatch, call 563.589.4415.