Residential Fire on Westview Drive Contained, No Injuries Reported

Cherokee Fire Department (CFD) responded to a fully engulfed residential fire at 300 Westview Drive in Cherokee late last night. The call was dispatched at 11:53 PM on March 18th, with crews arriving on scene at 12:02 AM on March 19th.

Upon arrival, firefighters encountered a single-family, story-and-a-half wood frame home with heavy fire concentrated in the rear of the structure. The fire had damaged the gas meter, creating a “blow torch” effect. Rescue 2 firefighters quickly shut off the gas supply and initiated an aggressive fire attack.

Crews from Rescue 2, Tower 1, Engine 1, and Truck 1, totaling 15 firefighters, worked to extinguish the blaze. Tower 1 personnel entered the structure to assist with fire suppression and conduct a primary search, confirming no occupants were inside. Engine 1 established a water supply by connecting to a hydrant on Main Street and laying 900 feet of large diameter hose.

Firefighters utilized 1.75-inch hose lines to combat the fire. After knocking down the exterior flames, crews moved inside to complete extinguishment.

Due to a significant hole in the roof, approximately 10 feet by 12 feet, caused by the fire, CFD personnel used 2x4s and a large tarp to cover the opening to prevent further damage from predicted blizzard conditions.

The home sustained heavy fire, smoke, and water damage. The cause of the fire is under investigation, but it is not currently deemed suspicious.

Assisting CFD at the scene were CRMC Ambulance, Cherokee Police Department, Cherokee Sheriff’s Department, Alliant Energy, and MidAmerican Energy.

Firefighters cleared the scene at 2:45 AM and were back in service at 3:31 AM.

There were no injuries reported.