Perry, Iowa House Fire Injures Woman, Community Rallies
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Perry, Iowa House Fire Leaves Woman Injured, Community Rallies to Support Displaced Family
A devastating house fire ripped through a home in Perry, Iowa, early Tuesday morning, leaving one woman injured and a family of four displaced. The blaze, reported around 3:15 AM on October 24th, engulfed the residence at 1806 Plum Street, prompting a swift response from multiple local fire departments and resulting in significant damage to the property. While firefighters managed to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading to neighboring homes, the family is now facing the daunting task of rebuilding their lives.
According to KCCI News, the woman who sustained injuries was attempting to rescue her pets when she became trapped inside the burning structure. Firefighters were able to extract her and transport her to a local hospital for treatment of smoke inhalation. Her condition is currently listed as stable, though further details regarding the severity of her injuries haven't been released. The rest of the family – a husband and two children – escaped unharmed but are understandably shaken by the experience.
The Perry Fire Department was initially dispatched to the scene, quickly requesting mutual aid from the Dawson State Fire Department, Boone Fire Department, and the Dallas Center Fire Department. The sheer scale of the fire required a coordinated effort involving numerous personnel and equipment. Firefighters battled the blaze for several hours before bringing it under control. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by the Iowa State Fire Marshal’s Office. While no official determination has been made, investigators are working to determine if any electrical issues or other factors contributed to the incident.
"It was pretty intense," stated Perry Fire Chief Brent Utterback in an interview with KCCI. "The house was fully involved when we arrived on scene. Our priority was getting everyone out safely and then containing the fire." He emphasized the importance of working smoke detectors, a recurring message following any residential fire.
The impact extends beyond just the immediate family. The community of Perry has quickly mobilized to offer support. A GoFundMe campaign, organized by a neighbor identified as Sarah Johnson, has been established to assist the displaced family with essential needs such as clothing, food, and temporary housing. As of this writing, the campaign has already raised over $15,000, demonstrating the outpouring of generosity from local residents. Johnson described the family as “wonderful neighbors” who are actively involved in the community.
The GoFundMe page details that the family lost everything in the fire, including irreplaceable sentimental items. The funds will be used to help them get back on their feet and begin the process of rebuilding their lives. Donations can be made at [ https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-the-family-who-lost-their-home ].
The Red Cross is also providing assistance to the family, offering immediate support and connecting them with resources for long-term recovery. They are assisting with temporary shelter, food, and emotional support services. The Red Cross often plays a crucial role in disaster relief efforts, ensuring that affected individuals have access to vital aid during times of crisis.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of house fires and the importance of fire safety precautions. The Perry Fire Department regularly conducts public education programs on topics such as smoke detector maintenance, escape planning, and preventing kitchen fires – common causes of residential blazes. Residents are encouraged to check their smoke detectors monthly and replace batteries annually. Having a well-rehearsed escape plan can also significantly increase the chances of survival in the event of a fire.
The investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing, and updates will be provided as they become available from the Iowa State Fire Marshal’s Office. For now, the focus remains on supporting the affected family and ensuring their well-being as they navigate this challenging period. The community's swift response highlights the strength and compassion that defines Perry, Iowa, demonstrating a commitment to helping neighbors in need during times of adversity.
Sources:
- KCCI News Article: [ https://www.kcci.com/article/perry-iowa-house-fire-woman-injured-smoke-inhalation/69889026 ]
- GoFundMe Campaign: [ https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-the-family-who-lost-their-home ]
Read the Full KCCI Des Moines Article at:
[ https://www.kcci.com/article/perry-iowa-house-fire-woman-injured-smoke-inhalation/69889026 ]