Evanston Fire Department responds to house fire in 1300 block of Dewey Ave.

On Monday, Aug. 16, at approximately 8:45 a.m., the Evanston Fire Department responded to reports of a house fire at a residential home in the 1300 block of Dewey Ave.

First-responding companies encountered restricted access to the home with heavy smoke and fire on the first floor. The fire was quickly upgraded to a box alarm, bringing in neighboring fire departments to assist with the response and to provide coverage for Evanston.

Residents were able to exit the building safely and no civilian injuries were reported. One firefighter is being treated at a local hospital for a minor injury. Firefighters also rescued several cats from the building. 

A portion of Dempster Street was briefly closed to allow for staging of fire vehicles, but has since reopened. The fire is still under investigation at this time.