May 7, 2024

At 4:59 am, a homeowner called 911 inform them about a fire in their residence caused by a lightning strike. Promptly at 5:00 am, the Dubuque Fire Department hurried to 640 Florence. Fourteen firefighters, onboard various vehicles including Command 528, Engine 505, Engine 501, Engine 506, Ladder 511, Ladder 512, and Medic 554, swiftly arrived at the scene.

The first unit to arrive was Engine 505, which took control of the situation within four minutes of being dispatched. They surveyed the scene and noticed flames coming from the top of the structure. To combat the fire, they utilized a master stream device. Shortly after Engine 505, the shift commander arrived and confirmed that all individuals had safely evacuated the building. Other fire crews entered the house with a hose to identify any remaining hot spots and conduct salvage and overhaul operations. They also cleared the structure of smoke and verified that the fire had not spread further. The fire was deemed accidental due to the lightning strike, but the building was deemed livable, and all five occupants, including three children and two adults, were able to return home.

The Dubuque Fire Department received support from the Dubuque Police Department during the incident. Thankfully, no injuries were reported.