House damage estimated at $100K from attic fire

One firefighter was taken to the hospital after a fire on the east side caused about $100,000 damage, officials said.

The Madison Fire Department said a neighbor saw smoke coming from the attic at 2320 Lakeland Ave. and reported it at 6:46 p.m. Monday.

Madison Fire Department spokesman Eric Dahl said firefighters entering the house found light smoke on the second floor and heavier smoke in the attic. A thermal-imaging camera was used to help locate the fire, which was burning inside the front wall of the house.

The report said firefighters opened the plaster at the home and wire mesh walls to locate and extinguish the fire.

Dahl said one firefighter was taken to the hospital as a precaution. He was evaluated for heat exhaustion and released.

Firefighters who were not involved with extinguishing the fire salvaged items that were not yet damaged, according to the report. They moved photos and other cherished items away from the area of the fire to prevent damage. Tarps were also used to cover furniture to prevent smoke and water damage.

The owners were not home at the time of the fire. Dahl said the cause of the fire is under investigation.