***UPDATE 12/13/2025 5:05 p.m.***
Manitowoc firefighters battled the frigid cold while also taking down a house fire late Saturday afternoon.
The Manitowoc Fire Rescue Department responded to the home in the 700 block of North 8th Street shortly after 3:00 p.m., after flames and smoke were seen coming from the attic on the back side of the structure.
Battalion Chief Jaccob Johnsrud told SeehaferNews.com that the residents had evacuated upon their arrival, allowing the crews to begin attacking the blaze.
As far as how the cold affected his team, Johnsrud explained, “Hose lines can freeze up a lot faster, so we have to make sure we are operating with cold weather in our minds. It delays response with our vehicles with the roadways and things like that, and just making sure when we do stuff that we are mindful of the residents, aside from our own equipment.”
Some water did end up on the road, but Johnsrud assured us that they are working with the Department of Public Works to make sure the ice is cleared as best as it can.
Crews are expected to remain on the scene until around 6:00 p.m.
The cause of the fire is not known at this time, nor is the cost of the damage.
Johnsrud thanked the Branch, Two Rivers, and Newton Fire Departments, all of which responded to the MABAS Alarm.
***Original Story 12/13/2025 3:35 p.m.***
The Manitowoc Fire Rescue Department is currently on the scene of an active house fire.
The home is located in the 700 block of North 8th Street and the roadway is blocked off.
SeehaferNews.com is on the scene, and will update this story when more information becomes available.
