Quick reporting helps crews snuff out Cedar Rapids garage fire

Quick reporting helped salvage a Cedar Rapids garage that caught fire Thursday morning, officials said.

Shortly after 11 a.m., a passer-by reported the fire at 188 Jacolyn Dr. NW. Crews feared the worst when they arrived to find smoke coming from eaves on both sides of the house, but were able to snuff out the flames quickly.

Fire Department spokesman Greg Buelow said the fire originated in the one-stall garage, but did not extend to the attic or the living quarters of the house. No one was home when the fire broke out, he said.

Household items, such as a filing cabinet, tools and a game table, were in the garage, but no vehicle. The cause of the fire was under investigation, Buelow said.

Parts of Jacolyn Drive and Gordon Avenue NW were blocked by fire hose and emergency vehicles. They have since reopened.