SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — A fire in the southwestern part Sioux Falls caused considerable damage to a home on Tuesday.

At 3:10 p.m., Sioux Falls Fire Rescue (SFFR) responded to a structure fire at the 1800 block of S. Sertoma Avenue. The first arriving crews discovered smoke and fire in the first level of the building extending to the second floor.

Firefighters found a significant amount of fire and had difficulty getting into the structure due to extreme heat. They continued extinguishment efforts as they searched for occupants and animals.

After 30 minutes, the fire was extinguished but there was significant damage to the house on both levels.

There were no injuries to the residents or first responders. A dog perished in the fire.

SFFR responded to the fire with 27 personnel, six fire trucks and four support vehicles. They were assisted by the Sioux Falls Police Department, Sioux Falls Animal Control, PatientCare EMS, Metro Communications, Mid-American Energy and Xcel Energy.

SFFR reminds people of the importance of having working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and to have an escape plan in the event of a fire.