Southern Stone County Fire Works With Multiple Agencies in Fighting Structure Fire

The Southern Stone County Fire Protection District responds to a Four-Alarm Residential Fire which includes the rescue of multiple dogs.

According to a release from the district, at approximately 12:20 p.m. Monday, units from the Southern Stone County Fire Fighters responded to a reported residential structure fire near Joe Bald Road and Hoot Owl Point.

Upon arrival, first-arriving crews found the garage fully involved with fire, which had already spread into the residence. Due to the size and intensity of the fire, a fourth alarm was requested, bringing additional firefighting personnel and water tankers to the scene.

Shortly after arriving, firefighters learned there were approximately 15 dogs inside the home. Five of the animals were located inside kennels in the garage. Crews cut through the garage doors to gain access and rescue the dogs.

Three of the dogs were found unresponsive and not breathing. Emergency responders immediately began resuscitation efforts, and all three animals were successfully revived. The remaining dogs were unharmed.

Southern Stone County Fire Protection District was assisted by personnel from the Branson Fire Department as well as the Central Crossing, Highlandville, and Western Taney County Fire Protection Districts. 

Hoot Owl Point was closed to through traffic for several hours as firefighters worked to bring the fire under control. The Stone County Sheriff's Office assisted with traffic control and road closures.

The Stone County Ambulance District also responded and provided rehabilitation and medical assessments for firefighters and support personnel operating in extreme heat conditions.

The residence appears to be a total loss according to the release and no injuries were reported. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.