Fire Damages Home in Mattoon (UPDATE)

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Published on January 4 2018 11:05 am
Last Updated on January 4 2018 3:45 pm
Written by Greg Sapp

Mattoon firefighters spent two hours Thursday morning knocking down a structure fire at 1305 South 14th Street.

Firefighters were called to the scene at 5:26am. Upon arrival, firefighters reported heavy fire showing from the rear of the residence and requested a box alarm assignment.

Fire crews entered the structure and worked to extinguish the fire that was coming from the laundry room. Crews were able to quickly put out the fire.

No injuries were reported, but 10 occupants home at the time of the fire have been displaced. Three pets were rescued from the structure. Mattoon Fire Chief Tony Nichols said the fire was due to combustible items resting against a gas water heater. Nichols reminds listeners to keep combustible items at least three feet away from water heaters and other heat-generating appliances. Plus, make sure you have a working smoke alarm.

Mattoon firefighters were assisted by the Charleston Fire Department, Mattoon Police Department and Ameren gas and electric. Fire personnel cleared the scene at 7:22am.