The West Bend Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at a single-family residence on Saturday, May 30. Initial reports indicated flames were burning on an exterior wall and extending into the basement, with a resident reportedly inside attempting to extinguish the fire.

West Bend Public Safety Dispatchers requested a Full Still assignment through MABAS Card, which dispatched all West Bend Fire Department stations and designated automatic aid companies.

Battalion 1 found light smoke coming from the open garage door of the residence, and bystanders were attempting to extinguish the fire on the east exterior wall with a garden hose. West Bend Police officers had already assisted all occupants from the home and confirmed everyone was safely accounted for. 

Fire crews initiated an offensive interior attack in the basement, quickly bringing the fire under control and checking for extension into concealed spaces. The fire likely originated in an exterior wall behind the siding and extended into the floor cavity above the finished basement, causing damage to several floor joists.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Additional personnel from the West Bend, Jackson, and Kewaskum Fire Departments assisted with overhaul, ventilation, and air quality monitoring. EMS personnel evaluated two police officers and three residents for smoke inhalation.