Early in the morning of February 22, 2025, at 12:54 AM, Great Falls Fire Rescue (GFFR) A Platoon responded to a working house fire that resulted in the rescue of an unresponsive victim.
Upon arrival, Engine 3’s crew deployed a handline to the backside of the home, quickly working to extinguish the fire before advancing another line to the front for interior fire control and search operations. During the primary search, firefighters located an unresponsive victim in the hallway and swiftly removed them from the structure.
With the assistance of Engine 1’s crew, GFFR personnel administered a Cyanokit, a specialized treatment for carbon monoxide poisoning carried by Great Falls Fire Rescue. The patient was then transferred to Great Falls Emergency Services (GFES) for transport to Benefis Health System. Due to the severity of their condition, the patient was ultimately flown to Salt Lake City for further treatment.
The home sustained heavy fire and smoke damage and is currently uninhabitable. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, with the case assigned to GFFR’s Fire Prevention Bureau.
“We are grateful for the swift and coordinated efforts of our GFFR crews in both fire suppression and life-saving medical intervention,” stated Fire Chief Jones. “This incident highlights the critical importance of our specialized training and equipment in protecting our community.”
Chief Jones also wanted to recognize that this fire occurred during Captain Spencer Swingley’s last shift with GFFR after 21 years of service to The City of Great Falls.
In All, GFFR crews responded to over 38 calls for service during this 24-hour period.
Great Falls Fire Rescue reminds residents to ensure working smoke alarms are installed in their homes and to have an established fire escape plan.
