Extensive Damage at Eastside House Fire

Fire caused extensive damage to a home on Madison's east side this morning. Firefighters were dispatched to 3813 Tulane Avenue at 10:09 a.m. after neighbors saw smoke coming from the home's eaves and called 911. Ladder 8 and Engine 5 arrived on scene and started firefighting operations. They searched the smoke filled house for the fire, checking the attic and basement. Some fire was found in the basement and quickly extinguished. Other crews checked the home with a thermal imaging camera and found some fire in the walls on the first floor. Firefighters, using axes and pike poles, opened up the walls and ceiling to extinguish the fire burning behind the drywall. The home was searched twice for any occupants, but nobody was home at the time of the fire. Firefighters used fans to remove smoke from the home. Madison Gas and Electric responded to disconnect the electricity. The fire caused approximately $80,000 damage to the structure and contents in the home. No injuries were reported at the scene. The cause of the fire is under investigation. Firefighters remind everyone of these safety tips: • Install smoke alarms on every level of the home, in each bedroom, and outside each bedroom. • Test your smoke alarms every month. • Make an escape plan and have a fire drill to practice your plan. • When the alarm sounds, get out and stay out. • After you have escaped, call 9-1-1 from a safe place. • Never go back inside the building for any reason.