Wapello Fire and Rescue have been busy fighting fires and medical emergencies in the last week.
At 3:38 PM on March 13th, Wapello Fire and Rescue was called to the Wapello yard waste site for a report of fire out of control. Crews arrived on scene and extinguished some burning yard waste.
At approximately 7:18 PM on March 14th, crews were called to 14164 County Road G-62 for a report of a garage fire. Arriving on scene, they determined that the fire had been extinguished by the homeowner. Crews conducted overhaul operations and investigation for fire extension. The cause of the fire was determined to be from improper handling of shop towels. Damage was estimated at less than $5000. There were no injuries.
Just before 3 in the morning on Monday the 18th, Wapello Fire and Rescue was called 5364 Highway 99 in rural Oakville to assist Oakville Fire Department with a structure fire. Upon arrival, Oakville Fire Department was on scene of a single family home. Heavy smoke and flames were observed coming through the roof and from inside the home. Crews attacked the fire and ventilated the structure. Firefighters remained on scene for several hours conducting salvage and overhaul operations before the fire was eventually extinguished. The home sustained heavy damage from fire, smoke and water. Damage estimates are not available at this time but the home is inhabitable.
The American Red Cross was requested to assist the occupants. The cause of the fire is under investigation. Two occupants were home at the time of the fire and were able to escape the structure however one occupant of the home was transported to the hospital by Wapello Ambulance. Two cats were located inside the home and rescued by firefighters. There were no injuries to any firefighters. Firefighting efforts were complicated by high winds and freezing temperatures. Agencies responding to the fire included Oakville Fire and Rescue, Wapello Fire and Rescue, Wapello Community Ambulance, Morning Sun Fire Department, Louisa County Sheriff’s Office, Eastern Iowa Light and Power and Servpro.