Published on January 28, 2026 9:32 am
Last Updated on January 28, 2026 9:32 am
A fire severely damaged an Effingham home on Tuesday night. According to Effingham Fire Chief Brant Yochum, on January 27, at approximately 9:15 PM, the Effingham Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 707 Holiday Drive.
Upon arrival, fire crews encountered flames and heavy smoke visible from the exterior of the residence. Firefighters immediately performed a transitional attack, successfully knocking down the fire. Crews then transitioned to interior operations to extinguish remaining hotspots and conducted overhaul and investigation.
All occupants were able to safely exit the residence prior to the arrival of the fire department. No civilian injuries were reported.
Fire crews remained on scene for an extended period to complete overhaul. The incident occurred during extreme cold weather conditions, which added additional challenges for firefighters operating on scene. There were no firefighter injuries.
The fire has been ruled accidental, caused by heat from a fireplace. Estimated damage to the residence is approximately $125,000.
This incident involved a coordinated response from the Effingham Fire Department, Shumway Fire Protection District, Teutopolis Fire Protection District, Rural Med EMS, Effingham Police Department, Effingham County Sheriff’s Department, Effingham City Dispatch, Ameren Electric, Ameren Gas, and the Effingham Water Department. Station coverage during the incident was provided by the Dieterich Fire Protection District and the Altamont Fire Protection District. Greenup Fire Protection District was dispatched but later disregarded.
