Structure fire destroys home in advance amid extreme cold

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

ADVANCE, Mo., (KBSI) — Advance Fire Department responded to a structure fire Thursday evening amid extremely cold conditions.

Firefighters arrived to find heavy smoke throughout the residence, with fire extending into the walls, beneath the subfloor and into the attic, creating multiple concealed hot spots. Officials said the combination of freezing temperatures, building construction and hidden fire spread made suppression efforts particularly challenging.

Crews worked the fire for several hours before transitioning to a defensive strategy after consulting with the homeowner. Fire officials said the decision was made due to firefighter safety concerns, environmental conditions and the extent of fire damage.

The structure was declared a total loss, and crews focused on containing exterior fire and protecting nearby buildings.

Multiple agencies provided mutual aid, including the Bloomfield Fire Department, Bell City Fire Department, Chaffee Fire Department, Stoddard County Ambulance District, the Advance Water Department, City of Advance officials and SEMO Electric Cooperative.

Fire officials praised the coordinated response and thanked mutual aid partners, dispatchers and community members for their assistance during the incident.