The Sterling Fire Department responded to a residential structure fire at 309 West 7th Street in Sterling Friday morning at approximately 09:09. Sterling Fire was assisted on the scene by the Dixon Rural and Rock Falls Fire Departments as well as Sterling Police, CGH Ambulance Service, Sterling Code Enforcement, and the State Fire Marshal’s office.
Fire crews arrived on the scene at 09:13 and found smoke and flames coming from the rear of the two-story home. All residents were able to safely evacuate the building before fire crews arrived. Firefighters initiated an aggressive interior attack and successfully extinguished the fire. No civilians or firefighters were injured during the incident. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by the State Fire Marshal.
Damage and Displacement
The fire caused extensive damage to the kitchen and most of the first floor, with moderate smoke damage throughout the second floor. The 3 residents displaced by the fire are being assisted by the Red Cross, 1-800 board up, and Werner Restorations.
A Message on Fire Safety
The Sterling Fire Department would like to remind all residents about the importance of fire safety. Have a working smoke alarm: Ensure you have working smoke alarms on every level of your home, and in and outside of all sleeping areas.
Create an escape plan: Plan and practice a fire escape plan with everyone in your home, including two ways out of every room.
Get out and stay out: In the event of a fire, get out and stay out. Never re-enter a burning building. For further questions, please contact the Sterling Fire Department or the State Fire Marshal’s office.