
On February 4th, at approximately 7:30 p.m., Great Falls Fire Rescue’s B Platoon was dispatched to a reported structure fire at 1525 4th Avenue N.W. Truck 2 was the first unit to arrive and encountered a well-advanced fire with heavy involvement of the residence, including flames actively venting through the roof and a camper in the driveway fully engulfed in flames.
Initial access to the structure was significantly hindered by large amounts of debris burning in the yard and dense vegetation obstructing the approach to the home. After crews cleared a safe access path, Truck 2 initiated an exterior fire attack to reduce the most intense fire conditions. Firefighters then entered through the kitchen door and conducted a primary search of the residence, but no occupants or pets were found inside.
Due to the extent of the fire damage and structural involvement, command decided to transition to a defensive strategy. Crews exited the structure and, alongside Engine 4, continued suppression operations from the exterior, successfully containing the fire and preventing further spread.
Mutual aid was requested from the Malmstrom Air Force Base Fire Department and the Montana Air National Guard Fire Department to ensure adequate citywide emergency coverage while Great Falls Fire Rescue activated callback staffing. Great Falls Fire Rescue expressed great appreciation for the support of the military fire service partners, recognizing that their primary missions always take precedence, which means availability cannot be assumed for every incident.
At this time, the cause of the fire remains under investigation. The residence is considered a total loss, but the occupants were not displaced, as the home was unoccupied at the time of the fire.
By Karen Anderson: February 5, 2026 – Great Falls, Mt