Hawthorn woods house fire – 03/11/2023

A house fire broke out on the 10 block of Robin Crest Road in Hawthorn Woods, just north of Lake Zurich, on October 17, 2023, at around 4 p.m. The fire originated at a home situated in a heavily wooded lot and was quickly reported.

• Heavy flames were observed emanating from the house, prompting an immediate response from firefighters.
• An extra-alarm blaze led to the activation of the Mutual Aid Box Alarm System (MABAS) at the third-alarm level, which brought approximately 30 fire departments to the scene. Their mission dow was to cover Lake Zurich fire stations.
• Firefighting crews employed an aerial ladder to apply water to the fire.
• Fortunately, there were no reported injuries in connection with the incident.
• The fire resulted in extensive damage to both the house and the surrounding area.
• The family that resided in the affected home was confirmed to be safe as they were not present when the fire started.
• Regrettably, the house was completely destroyed, and a dog from the household was unaccounted for following the fire.
• Given the absence of fire hydrants in the area, multiple water tender trucks were called to the scene.
• Firefighters set up a large diameter hose leading into the incident area, allowing fire engines to pump water to the location. This water supply supported the use of a ladder truck and multiple hose lines on the ground to effectively combat the fire.
• Preventing house fires is of paramount importance, considering their potential for devastating property damage and loss of life.
• Key fire prevention tips include installing and maintaining smoke detectors, keeping flammable materials away from heat sources, and ensuring the presence of fire extinguishers.
• It’s also critical to have a well-defined evacuation plan in place for your household in the event of a fire emergency.

Extent of the damage caused by the fire in Hawthorn Woods

According to the Lake Zurich Fire Department, fire in lake Zurich today that occurred on the 10 block of Robin Crest Road in Hawthorn Woods on October 17, 2023, resulted in the complete destruction of the home. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

• Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but a pet from the household remains unaccounted for.
• The fire caused extensive damage to the house, making it uninhabitable.
• The area lacks fire hydrants, prompting the dispatch of numerous water tender trucks to the scene.
• The fire also caused an estimated $130,000 in damage to a home in Hawthorn Woods.
• The fire did not spread to other homes or buildings in Hawthorn Woods on October 17, 2023.
• Due to the absence of fire hydrants, there was a significant response from emergency crews, including a dozen water tenders, seven ambulances, 10 fire engines, and 13 chief fire officers.
• Concerns were raised about low water pressure and breaks in the integrity of water pipes, potentially threatening the safety of tap water in the Hawthorn Woods and Kildeer area.

What safety measures can be taken to prevent house fires in Hawthorn Woods?

1. Install Smoke Detectors: Place smoke detectors strategically throughout your home. Regularly test them and change the batteries at least once a year to ensure they function properly.
2. Keep Flammable Materials Away from Heat Sources: Maintain a safe distance between flammable materials like curtains, paper, and cleaning supplies, and potential heat sources like stoves, heaters, and fireplaces.
3. Have a Fire Extinguisher Readily Available: Keep a fire extinguisher in an easily accessible location. Familiarize yourself and your household with its usage, as it can be vital for containing small fires before they escalate.
4. Establish an Evacuation Plan: Prepare a well-defined evacuation plan for your household in case of a fire emergency. Ensure that everyone in your home knows the plan and understands where to meet outside to stay safe.
5. Practice Electrical Safety: Electrical fires can result from overloaded outlets, frayed cords, and faulty wiring. Use electrical appliances and cords safely, and have them inspected regularly to prevent electrical hazards.
6. Maintain Your Home Heating System: Heating systems can pose a fire hazard if not properly maintained. Have your heating system inspected and cleaned by a professional at least once a year to ensure it operates safely.

By adhering to these safety measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of house fires in Hawthorn Woods, promoting the safety of both your family and your property.