DEKALB, Ill. – On Tuesday afternoon, Oct. 13, DeKalb Fire Department responded to a kitchen fire at an apartment complex in the 700 block of Fotis Drive, near Pappas Park. Fire crews arrived shortly after the 4:30 p.m. call and found flames spreading from the oven into the surrounding kitchen area.
Firefighters’ response
Fire Chief Luke Howieson reported that crews deployed 500 gallons of water to extinguish the blaze and ventilated the building to clear smoke and heat. The rapid response limited damage to the interior of the unit and prevented the fire from spreading to neighboring apartments.
Impact on resident
The sole occupant of the affected apartment was evaluated on‑scene by paramedics for minor smoke inhalation. The resident declined further medical treatment and was assisted by property management and family members in finding temporary housing. The apartment has been declared uninhabitable under city code pending repairs.
Estimated damage and next steps
Officials estimate the fire caused roughly $20,000 in damage. Property management is coordinating repairs to bring the unit back into compliance with local housing standards. In the meantime, the displaced resident is staying with relatives while the building is cleared and inspected.
Fire safety reminder
The DeKalb Fire Department confirmed the fire was accidental and used the incident to remind the community that cooking remains a leading cause of home fires, injuries, and fatalities. Residents are encouraged to keep flammable items away from stovetops, never leave cooking unattended, and have working smoke detectors throughout their homes. Additional fire‑prevention tips are available on the National Fire Protection Association’s website.
Community support
Local volunteers and neighborhood groups have offered assistance to the affected family, illustrating the strong community spirit that characterizes DeKalb. The fire department thanked citizens for their cooperation and urged everyone to practice fire safety to protect families and property.
Original reporting: WIFR Rockford News First (local) — read the source article.
