Atlantic Fire & Rescue, Medivac Ambulance and Atlantic Police responded to a call about thick smoke coming from a home on Atlantic’s west side late Wednesday night. The call came in from a home at 511 Front Street at around 11:15-p.m.  Atlantic Fire Chief Mark McNees told KJAN News Atlantic Police Lt. Paul Wood (who is also a volunteer firefighter) was first on the scene and confirmed thick smoke was emitting from the structure, which had been evacuated prior to authorities’ arrival. One person was transported by Medivac to the Cass County Memorial Hospital, for treatment of smoke inhalation.

McNees said they thought at first the fire was in the basement, and perhaps from a dryer or furnace. But after they entered the home, it was discovered the smoke was coming from a pan of grease on the stove that registered 1,200 degrees on the thermal imaging device. He said it was a “miracle” the grease didn’t erupt into flames, because it was splattered around the pan, as well.

Crews were on the scene for about 45-to 60-minutes, ventilating the home, which sustained primarily smoke damage.