Lightning strike sparks house fire in Fruitland area
FOX23 News at 9 p.m
FRUITLAND, Mo., (KBSI) — Firefighters responded to a house fire Thursday night after a reported lightning strike during severe storms in the area.
The Fruitland Area Fire Protection District said it was notified Aug. 13 by a direct call to Fruitland Station No. 1 that a home had reportedly been struck by lightning. A residential first alarm was then issued.
When firefighters arrived, they found a single-story home with no visible smoke or flames from the outside. Crews investigating the home found a hot spot and signs of fire in the attic.
Firefighters entered the attic and began extinguishing the fire while other crews used thermal imaging equipment to check the home’s interior. During the search, crews discovered additional heat and fire above the bathroom ceiling.
Firefighters opened the ceiling, removed affected insulation and extinguished the remaining fire.
The fire was declared contained around 9:15 p.m. Crews remained at the home to remove smoldering insulation and repeatedly check for hidden fire with thermal imaging cameras. Salvage covers were also used to protect the homeowner’s property during firefighting operations.
Final checks found no remaining areas of concern, and crews cleared the scene around 10:15 p.m.
The Fruitland Area Fire Protection District thanked the East County, North Cape County, Millersville Rural and Gordonville fire protection districts, along with other responding agencies, for their assistance.
No injuries were reported in the release.
