Published on January 29, 2026 3:13 pm
Last Updated on January 29, 2026 3:13 pm
Altamont Fire Protection District was called to a structure fire at 10:18pm Wednesday.
The structure is located at 7502 East 550th Avenue, south of Altamont.
Altamont Fire Chief Jon Becker said all occupants and pets got out of the house before emergency units arrived. Becker said smoke was coming from the attic when crews reached the scene. He said firefighters were able to contain the fire to its area of origin despite having to deal with two roofs.
Battery-operated saws, purchased through volunteers’ fundraising efforts, were used to open the area to attack the fire.
Becker said the cause of the fire is yet to be determined with a focus on electrical wiring in the area of the fire.
There were no injuries to either occupants or firefighters.
Mutual aid was requested to the Full Still level, bringing assistance from St. Elmo, Brownstown, Edgewood Bi-County, and Shumway Fire Protection Districts, in addition to A-1 EMS, Rural Med EMS, and the Effingham County Sheriff’s Office. Teutopolis Fire Protection District provided station coverage in case of another fire.
