On Friday, January 3, 2025, at 8:55 PM, the Dubuque Emergency Communications Center received a 911 call from a resident reporting a dryer fire in their manufactured home. Dispatchers noted smoke detectors sounding in the background. The Dubuque Fire Department promptly dispatched Engine 503, Engine 506, Engine 501, Command 528, Medic 551, and Ladder 511 to the scene.

Upon arrival, Engine 503 encountered heavy smoke emanating from the front door and a fire on the north side of the residence. The occupants were seen at the front door and reentered the house. The fire crew swiftly entered the smoke and assisted the occupants outside. A fire hose was charged with water, and the flames were extinguished outside before entering the home to complete the extinguishment.

The paramedic crew began treating the occupants and promptly removed them from the freezing temperatures. One occupant suffered severe smoke inhalation and was transported to the emergency department. The fire crew also reported intense smoke conditions inside the home, prompting the use of a fan to disperse the smoke.

Crews worked diligently to clear the home of smoke and confirmed that there was no further fire extension beyond the dryer and laundry area. The fire was determined to be accidental due to a malfunction in the dryer. Consequently, the home was deemed uninhabitable. The property manager arrived on the scene and assisted in securing the utilities and the residence.

The estimated losses incurred in the incident amounted to $11,000.

The Dubuque Fire Department was supported on the scene by the Dubuque Police Department. Thankfully, there were no reported injuries to the responders.