Space Heater Fire Leaves Home 'Uninhabitable' In Palatine: Officials

PALATINE, IL — Two residents of a single-family home were displaced following a Tuesday morning fire in Palatine. According to officials, the fire, which began before 10 a.m., was put out in about 30 minutes. A space heater in the bedroom is being blamed for starting the fire.

No civilians or firefighters were injured in the fire, which left the two-story home uninhabitable. Damage estimates were not available at the time of this report. Twenty-four firefighters fought the fire, with neighboring fire departments assisting Palatine.

According to a news release from the Palatine Fire Department, heavy smoke was reported coming from the home in the 300 block of W. Glade Road at around 9:54 a.m. Initial crews on the scene met with the homeowner, who informed them that everyone was out of the house.

Crews deployed a hose line and opened the ceiling on the second floor, ensuring there was no fire in the attic above the living space. Additional crews searched the house and confirmed there were no victims. The fire was declared under control at 10:28 a.m., according to officials. Firefighters continued to move debris and check void spaces for hidden fire, while also ventilating smoke and toxic gases.

In addition to the 24 firefighters who fought the fire, four engines, one rescue squad, one ladder truck, and three ambulances, along with four command officers, responded to the scene. Fire crews from Arlington Heights, Rolling Meadows and Long Grove provided Palatine with assistance.

Officials are reminding residents to have working smoke detectors in their homes, whether a
single-family dwelling, an apartment, or a condo.

"Have an escape plan, practice it, and be prepared to use it in the event of any fire. In an emergency, do not delay exiting the home to search for pets or any other belongings," the fire department said in the news release.

For more fire safety information, visit www.palatine.il.us and www.nfpa.org.