Animals, Humans Safe After Dryer Fire At PAWS Tinley Park: Chief

TINLEY PARK, IL — No animals or humans were injured when a fire broke out in the laundry room of PAWS Tinley Park Wednesday evening, according to Tinley Park Fire Chief Steve Klotz.

Tinley Park firefighters were called to a fire at the animal shelter, 8301 W 191st St., at 6:30 p.m., said Village Manager Pat Carr. The fire originated in the shelter's dryer, Klotz said, and was extinguished within 5 to 10 minutes of firefighters arriving on the scene.

Shelter volunteers, staff, and firefighters worked together to contain individual animals and evacuate them from the building Klotz said. In total, all 55 cats and 42 dogs made it safely out of the building. Staff from Midwest Animal Hospital of Orland Park were there to transport the animals for evaluation, Klotz said.

PAWS Tinley Park officials said that animals remained hospitalized overnight, with 14 cats and 2 dogs showing signs of respiratory distress.

"The firefighters did an awesome job, the fire was held in check within the first 5 to 10 minutes of them arriving," Klotz said. "Unfortunately, the smoke travels, and that’s hard to stop. That’s why the immediate evacuation was the next step.

"... The cooperation between the firefighters, the volunteers, other people that showed up was second to none. It was just an awesome collaboration."

The extent of the damage was not immediately clear, but the fire was contained to the laundry room, Klotz said. He added the slightly less frigid temperature was helpful in ensuring a smooth evacuation and keeping the animals safe prior to their transport to the animal hospital.

The shelter will be closed as the facility is cleaned and necessary repairs made.

Those looking to support the shelter are encouraged to make monetary donations to help pay for vet bills, a new dryer and repairs.