Civilian enters burning house in Cedar Rapids to save dog

CEDAR RAPIDS — A civilian rescued a dog from a house fire Monday morning, according to a news release from the Cedar Rapids Fire Department.

The Cedar Rapids Fire Department responded to the fire in the 3600 block of Northwood Drive NE a little after 11 a.m., according to a news release from the agency.

Only one person was in the house at the time of the fire, and a civilian had already ensured that person was safe when emergency responders arrived. The civilian had also entered the house to save a dog that was barking in distress.

“We appreciate the good Samaritan who assisted in this incident but remind you to always prioritize personal safety when faced with unknown dangers like this,” the news release states.

While firefighters were working to extinguish the fire, one firefighter was hit by ceiling materials that gave way and collapsed on him. He was evaluated on-site and returned to work after it was determined he had not suffered serious injuries.

The house was seriously damaged in the fire, the cause of which still is under investigation.

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