Fire Damages Effingham Home, One Taken for Treatment

Fire damaged a home in Effingham early Wednesday morning.

Effingham firefighters were called to the home of Joe and Cathy Freimuth at 1023 North Main at 3:08am. Firefighters reaching the scene reported heavy smoke showing, with the occupants of the home out front in the driveway. Joe Freimuth was taken to HSHS St. Anthony's Memorial Hospital in Effingham for treatment of smoke inhalation.

Firefighters entered the home through the front door and made their way to the basement where they reported zero visibility but little heat. A dehumidifier at the base of the basement stairs had caught fire, with evidence the fire began going up the wall to the ceiling. The homeowner had used water in an attempt to control the progress of the fire. Firefighters used thermal imaging cameras to make sure the fire had extended no further. 

The remains of the dehumidifier was removed from the residence and firefighters utilized multiple exhaust fans to remove smoke that was found throughout the home.

Firefighters say a working smoke detector alerted the Freimuths, who were sleeping upstairs, of the fire.

Damage to the home is estimated at $5,000 to the structure and another $10,000 to the contents, primarily due to the heavy smoke damage throughout.

Crews cleared the scene at 4:15am.