Great Falls, MT (April 2, 2026) – Two minors were taken for treatment following a residential fire on Wednesday, April 1, at a residence along 1st Avenue North in Great Falls.
Emergency units responded to the house, located at 3609 1st Avenue North, at approximately 3:32 p.m. Crews arriving at the scene found flames contained to a basement bedroom and were able to bring the fire under control quickly, limiting most of the damage to that area, though smoke spread throughout the house.
Two minors from the home were evaluated for injuries and smoke exposure before being taken for medical care. Their conditions have not been released. Assistance was also provided to those displaced from the home, and utility service to the property was shut off as a precaution.
The fire remains under investigation, and additional details may be released as the review continues.
We are thinking of those affected as they receive care and recover.
How Smoke Exposure Can Affect People During Residential Fires
Smoke can spread quickly through a house, even when flames are contained to a single room. It often carries harmful gases and fine particles that can affect breathing within minutes.
Children may be more sensitive to smoke exposure due to their developing lungs. Even short exposure can lead to coughing, dizziness, or irritation, which is why medical checks are often done after a fire.
Places with working smoke alarms and early detection can reduce risk by allowing people to exit quickly. Ventilation, fire containment, and quick response can also help limit how far smoke travels inside a structure.
