Dubuque, IA – April 17, 2025, 7:00 AM CDT – A residential structure fire at 2258 Jackson Street in Dubuque prompted a swift response from the Dubuque Fire Department early this morning. The Dubuque Emergency Communications Center received a 911 call at precisely 5:12 AM from a resident reporting smoke filling the first floor of the home, with the distinct sound of smoke detectors audible in the background.

The Dubuque Fire Department immediately dispatched a full complement of resources to the scene at 5:12 AM, including Engine 3, Engine 6, Engine 1, Battalion 1, Medic 1, Truck 1, and Truck 4. A total of 15 firefighters were part of the initial alarm response.

Battalion 1 was the first unit to arrive on scene, reaching the Jackson Street residence within an impressive 4 minutes and 36 seconds of the initial dispatch. Upon arrival, firefighters noted that no occupants were initially visible outside the structure.

Crews immediately entered the first floor to conduct a search for both residents and the source of the smoke. Interior crews reported light smoke conditions from floor to ceiling but found no visible flames and no occupants on the first floor. As a precautionary measure, a fire hose was charged with water.

A second fire crew proceeded to the basement after shutting off the gas supply to the residence. Their search quickly revealed the presence of fire in the basement. The initial hose line was then directed into the basement, and the fire was successfully extinguished within a couple of minutes of its discovery. Firefighters also reported heavy smoke conditions within the basement area.

Fortunately, it was confirmed that all occupants of the home had safely evacuated the premises prior to the Fire Department’s arrival. Firefighters then utilized a fan to begin the process of removing the significant amount of smoke from the residence.

Crews initiated overhaul operations in the basement and the first floor directly above the fire, checking for any hidden embers or potential reignition. Minimal fire extension beyond the basement was observed and quickly dealt with. Firefighters continued to address hot spots and work to clear the remaining smoke from the basement.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Dubuque Fire Department. Authorities have determined that the home is currently uninhabitable due to the fire and smoke damage. The American Red Cross has been contacted to provide assistance and temporary lodging to the displaced residents.

Preliminary estimates place the total losses at approximately $20,000.

The Dubuque Fire Department received assistance on scene from the Dubuque Police Department, who provided traffic control and scene security. There were no reported injuries to either the responding firefighters or the occupants of the home.