Oelwein Fire Department responds to two separate structure fires

Release: Around-the-Clock Response as Crews Tackle Two Fires

The Oelwein Fire Department responded to two separate structure fires within approximately a 12-hour period on February 9, 2026.

“Our volunteer firefighters once again demonstrated their dedication and commitment to this community,” said Oelwein Public Safety Chief Jeremy Logan. “Responding to two significant fires within a 12-hour period requires sacrifice, teamwork, and professionalism, and I am proud of the effort our members put forth to protect lives and property.”

The first fire occurred in the 200 block of 5th Avenue SE. Firefighters were paged at approximately 5:11 a.m. to a report of a fire in an unattached garage. Upon arrival, crews found the garage filled with smoke. The resident reported they were preparing to leave for the morning when they noticed a glow inside the garage. The resident was able to extinguish the visible flames, slowing the fire’s progression until fire department personnel arrived. Firefighters cleared the structure of smoke and checked for hot spots. The fire is believed to have started in a lithium battery jump pack that was being used to charge a battery. Fire personnel were on scene for approximately one hour.

The Oelwein Fire Department would like to remind residents to use caution when charging batteries. Lithium battery devices should only be charged using manufacturer-approved chargers, should not be left unattended while charging, and should be kept away from combustible materials. Damaged or overheating batteries should be disconnected immediately and safely removed from the area.

The second fire occurred later that day in the 300 block of 4th Avenue SE. Firefighters were paged at approximately 5:24 p.m. to a report of a stove fire. Shortly after the initial page, dispatch advised that the fire had spread rapidly and was now consuming much of the first floor of the structure. Police and fire personnel arrived to find a large active fire inside a two-story residence. At that time, fire had already spread through the north half of the first floor and into the second story, with flames visible coming from a window. Fire crews remained on scene for approximately three hours. The cause of the fire is believed to be a grease fire originating from a pan left on the stove. The structure is considered a total loss.

Residents are reminded that grease fires should never be extinguished with water, as this can cause the fire to spread rapidly. If safe to do so, turn off the heat source, cover the pan with a lid, or use a fire extinguisher rated for kitchen fires. If the fire cannot be controlled immediately, evacuate the structure and call 911.

There were no reported injuries during either incident. The Oelwein Fire Department was assisted at the second incident by Oelwein MercyOne Ambulance and Fayette County Emergency Management.