Vacant house fire under investigation

 

Vacant house fire under investigation

Investigators with the Spokane Fire Department’s (SFD) Special Investigation Unit are investigating a house fire that occurred yesterday in the 1100 block of E. Glass Ave.

 

At approximately 1:30 p.m., the Spokane Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 1100 block of East Glass Ave. Reports to 9-1-1 indicated smoke and flames with possible explosion to a rear of a residence.

 

First arriving fire crews confirmed heavy fire from the rear of the structure. The fire was quickly located and extinguished in approximately 20 minutes, however, high outside temperatures slowed efforts to eliminate small fires in crawl spaces. Extra crews had to stay on scene to allow for rotations into the fire/work area to prevent dehydration and overheating. The last remaining crews left the scene approximately 5:30 p.m.

 

The house was vacant and there were no civilian or firefighter injuries.

 

The fire caused severe damage to the rear of the residence with smoke damage throughout.

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Michele Anderson | Public Safety Communications Manager
Spokane Police Department | Spokane Fire Department

cell 509.742.0063 | office 509.622.5868 | mlanderson@spokanecity.org

 

Fire crews quickly contain vegetation fire

 

Fire crews quickly contain vegetation fire

 

Yesterday, at approximately 5:15 p.m., the Spokane Fire Department, Spokane County Fire District 8, Spokane County Fire District 3 and the Department of Natural Resources responded to a brush fire next to State Highway 195 just north of Hatch Rd. Early reports indicated a misfired model rocket had started the fire.

 

First arriving crews found a moderately moving fire in level terrain with no immediately threatened structures. The fire was contained in approximately 30 minutes and limited to approximately one to two acres. Crews stayed on scene for an hour digging a fire line and wetting hot spots to prevent further fire starts.

 

There were no civilian or firefighter injuries and no property damage other than vegetation.

 

A follow up investigation is being performed by the Department of Natural Resources.

 

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Michele Anderson | Public Safety Communications Manager
Spokane Police Department | Spokane Fire Department

cell 509.742.0063 | office 509.622.5868 | mlanderson@spokanecity.org

 

Joint statement from Spokane Fire Department and International Association of Firefighters Local 29

Joint statement from Spokane Fire Department and International Association of Firefighters Local 29:

 

“The City of Spokane and International Association of Firefighters Local 29 are jointly committed to a workplace free from harassment, discrimination, or retaliation of any kind. We firmly believe in treating everyone with dignity, respect, and professionalism. In response to a recent complaint of workplace harassment and bullying, the City promptly conducted an investigation, the results of which have led to corrective action. While the investigation findings remain disputed, Local 29 has decided to forego a grievance or other challenge to those findings so that the City and Local 29 can work together to improve overall workplace culture within the Fire Department. Through this partnership, Local 29 will help lead the discussion on appropriate workplace behavior. 

 

The City and Local 29 take allegations of workplace misconduct very seriously. As a City, we have taken steps to make sure people have multiple ways to report concerns about workplace behavior and are comfortable coming forward with those concerns. As Chief, I will ensure the department is always working hard to improve by engaging with our community, building an inclusive culture, advancing new knowledge, and leading the way in seeking creative solutions to ever-changing challenges. These responsibilities are also delegated to every employee of the Spokane Fire Department. I have made it clear to the organization that any level of bullying, harassment, or offensive behavior will not be tolerated.”

 

 

Michele Anderson | Public Safety Communications Manager
Spokane Police Department | Spokane Fire Department

cell 509.742.0063 | office 509.622.5868 | mlanderson@spokanecity.org

 

House fire displaces five residents

 

 

 

House fire displaces five residents
No injuries were reported

 

An early morning house fire in northwest Spokane has displaced five residents.

 

At approximately 12:30 a.m., residents of a home in 5800 block of N. Driscoll Blvd. were alerted to a fire after hearing a noise and finding the bathroom on fire. The occupants attempted to extinguish the fire and contacted 9-1-1. 

 

All the residents evacuated prior to the arrival of the fire department. Crews advised the fire was in a hallway and bathroom and also found it had spread to the attic. Firefighters were able to quickly extinguish the fire preventing it from causing further damage.  

 

The American Red Cross responded to the scene to assist the family.

 

There were no injuries reported. 

 

The fire caused damage to the living area and moderate damage to the attic area. The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Spokane Fire Investigative Unit.

 

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Michele Anderson | Public Safety Communications Manager
Spokane Police Department | Spokane Fire Department

cell 509.742.0063 | office 509.622.5868 | mlanderson@spokanecity.org

 

Spokane Fire Department selects new Deputy Chief

 

Spokane Fire Department selects new Deputy Chief

 

After an extensive recruitment process, the Spokane Fire Department announces Rex Strickland III has been selected as the department’s new Deputy Fire Chief. Chief Strickland will be the Training Chief, overseeing both recruit and incumbent training, health & safety, and recruitment. He will begin on Monday, July 30.

 

Chief Strickland is a 29-year veteran of the fire service. Starting as a volunteer firefighter at the age of 16, he said he quickly understood that the fire service was the only career option for him. He was hired by Fairfax County (VA) Fire & Rescue Department in 1992. Fairfax County Fire & Rescue deploys 38 stations with 1,500 members within a population of 1.1 million inside of 400 square miles and almost 80,000 calls for service.

 

Chief Strickland specialized in Technical Rescue where he served as Technician, Master Technician, Lieutenant, and Captain. He was an Operations Chief for the International Urban, Search, & Rescue (US&R) program. He has deployed to numerous domestic and international disasters to include acts of terror at the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi Kenya and The Pentagon; earthquakes twice in Turkey, Taiwan, Haiti, and Japan; and numerous hurricanes to include Katrina and Sandy. In addition to the Special Operations programs, he has held positions in Communications and Training. Chief Strickland has been awarded two silver medals of valor, numerous unit citations and team performance awards, and a career achievement award. He retired after 26-years as a Battalion Fire Chief in Operations.

 

Chief Strickland teaches internationally to include South Africa, UAE, and across the nation on a variety of topics. He has presented lectures and hands-on training at Fire Department Instructor Conference (FDIC) and the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) Fire Rescue International (FRI). He also serves on national committees to include National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and on a UL Advisory Board. While in Fairfax, he served as Chair on the region’s operating manuals Technical Writing Group and the Command Operations committee among others.

 

Chief Strickland is excited to bring his wife and three kids to Spokane.

 

Please note: Next week, we will be scheduling media interviews with Chief Strickland once he begins his employment with the Spokane Fire Department. If you are interested in scheduling, please let me know. 

 

 

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Michele Anderson | Public Safety Communications Manager
Spokane Police Department | Spokane Fire Department

cell 509.742.0063 | office 509.622.5868 | mlanderson@spokanecity.org

 

RE: Spokane Fire Department selects new Fire Marshal

Sorry. Attached is Chief Phillips photo.

 

From: Anderson, Michele L.
Sent: Wednesday, July 18, 2018 8:45 AM
To: Anderson, Michele L. <mlanderson@spokanecity.org>
Subject: Spokane Fire Department selects new Fire Marshal

 

 

Spokane Fire Department selects new Fire Marshal

 

The Spokane Fire Department announces the appointment of Megan Phillips as the new City of Spokane Fire Marshal. Prior to her selection, Phillips served as the Assistant Fire Marshal. The Fire Marshal position became vacant after the retirement of Fire Marshal Michael Miller in June.

 

Phillips now leads the Prevention Division which includes code enforcement, plans review and community risk reduction. While her primary goal is the extremely important duty of public safety, she also prides herself in supporting Operations by being responsive to their needs and the needs of the citizens.

 

“Chief Phillips is incredibly resourceful and educated when it comes to understanding the fire code and all of its intricacies,” says Assistant Fire Chief Trisha Wolford. “As our new Fire Marshal, she will be a great asset to the Fire Department and the City. Her experience as Assistant Fire Marshal has prepared her for the hard work and dedication that is required to keep our city, residents and visitors safe.”

 

Phillips is a 20-year veteran with the Spokane Fire Department. She began her career as a volunteer Firefighter/EMT with the City of Millwood, WA in 1997. The Spokane Fire Department hired Phillips in 1998 as a Firefighter and she promoted to Fire Equipment Operator in 2001. Phillips accepted the position of Deputy Fire Marshal in 2005, then in 2015 promoted to Assistant Fire Marshal where she had the chance to supervise a highly motivated and professional team of fire inspectors and public educators.

 

Phillips has a Master’s Degree in Organizational Leadership from Gonzaga University, a Bachelor of Arts Degree from St. Mary’s College of Notre Dame, and a Fire Science Degree from the Community Colleges of Spokane. Phillips resides in Spokane with her husband Chris. Their two sons are both proudly serving in the United States Air Force.

 

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Michele Anderson | Public Safety Communications Manager
Spokane Police Department | Spokane Fire Department

cell 509.742.0063 | office 509.622.5868 | mlanderson@spokanecity.org

 

Spokane Fire Department selects new Fire Marshal

 

Spokane Fire Department selects new Fire Marshal

 

The Spokane Fire Department announces the appointment of Megan Phillips as the new City of Spokane Fire Marshal. Prior to her selection, Phillips served as the Assistant Fire Marshal. The Fire Marshal position became vacant after the retirement of Fire Marshal Michael Miller in June.

 

Phillips now leads the Prevention Division which includes code enforcement, plans review and community risk reduction. While her primary goal is the extremely important duty of public safety, she also prides herself in supporting Operations by being responsive to their needs and the needs of the citizens.

 

“Chief Phillips is incredibly resourceful and educated when it comes to understanding the fire code and all of its intricacies,” says Assistant Fire Chief Trisha Wolford. “As our new Fire Marshal, she will be a great asset to the Fire Department and the City. Her experience as Assistant Fire Marshal has prepared her for the hard work and dedication that is required to keep our city, residents and visitors safe.”

 

Phillips is a 20-year veteran with the Spokane Fire Department. She began her career as a volunteer Firefighter/EMT with the City of Millwood, WA in 1997. The Spokane Fire Department hired Phillips in 1998 as a Firefighter and she promoted to Fire Equipment Operator in 2001. Phillips accepted the position of Deputy Fire Marshal in 2005, then in 2015 promoted to Assistant Fire Marshal where she had the chance to supervise a highly motivated and professional team of fire inspectors and public educators.

 

Phillips has a Master’s Degree in Organizational Leadership from Gonzaga University, a Bachelor of Arts Degree from St. Mary’s College of Notre Dame, and a Fire Science Degree from the Community Colleges of Spokane. Phillips resides in Spokane with her husband Chris. Their two sons are both proudly serving in the United States Air Force.

 

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Michele Anderson | Public Safety Communications Manager
Spokane Police Department | Spokane Fire Department

cell 509.742.0063 | office 509.622.5868 | mlanderson@spokanecity.org

 

Providing the right care in the right setting

 

Providing the right care in the right setting

 

With the ultimate goal of providing the right care in the right setting for people experiencing behavior health issues, the Spokane Fire Department (SFD) has partnered with Frontier Behavioral Health to staff a Behavioral Response Unit. The program is funded through a grant from Providence Medical Group.

 

The program will help divert people experiencing less acute behavioral issues from the Emergency Department so they can be connected to more appropriate community resources. In turn, this will allow more time for the Emergency Department staff to provide the highest level of care to the most acute medical and behavioral health patients.

 

SFD has seen an increasing number of responses for behavioral-related issues since 2014, which mirrors national trends and creates significant demand on community emergency care resources. Currently, SFD averages more than nine behavioral related responses each day. Through the first half of this year, the department saw even greater growth in these responses with nearly a 20% increase compared to the first half of 2017.

 

“These trends require us to look at how we respond to these events differently,” says Spokane Fire Chief Brian Schaeffer. “Prior to this new program starting, all patients were transported by ambulance to local hospital emergency departments. Pairing a fire department paramedic with a mental health counselor to assist with people who are not acutely ill only makes sense. We have the opportunity to connect these individuals with the resources that are best suited to help them and provide better, more efficient care. This collaborative approach to helping people experiencing behavioral issues in our community is innovative and not seen in other parts of the State.”

 

The Program started on June 11 and during the first month of operation, the team responded to 36 requests for help. Nineteen of the people the team encountered were referred to more appropriate behavioral health services and avoided being transported in an ambulance to a local hospital emergency department.

 

“While the program is still in its early stages, we anticipate that we will continue to see improved access to services and care for people experiencing behavioral issues,” adds Schaeffer.

 

One program goal is to achieve a 50% hospital diversion rate in behavioral health patients that the new team encounters. Frontier Behavioral Health and SFD are also tracking additional metrics to see what other impacts this program has on both program and calls for each agency.

 

The Behavioral Response Unit will be assigned to behavioral health calls as an additional resource to other SFD response units during the hours of 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Upon arrival on scene, the initial responding paramedic and the Behavioral Response Unit paramedic will collaborate to determine if there is a medical cause for behavioral symptoms that may still require transport to the hospital. If both medics agree that there is not an emergent medical cause that needs to be addressed, both medics will collaborate with the mental health clinician to determine whether or not the patient is an appropriate candidate for diversion. If it is decided that the patient is a good candidate for diversion, the Behavioral Response Unit will release the other fire department resources to return back in service (allowing them to be available for other calls for service). The Behavioral Response Unit Team will further assess the individual and identify the most appropriate resource for diversion at that time.

 

A video, including interviews, about the Behavior Response Unit can be found here.

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Michele Anderson | Public Safety Communications Manager
Spokane Police Department | Spokane Fire Department

cell 509.742.0063 | office 509.622.5868 | mlanderson@spokanecity.org

 

Spokane City Fire Marshal issues outdoor recreational fire restrictions

 

 

 

Spokane City Fire Marshal issues outdoor recreational fire restrictions

 

Due to the hot, dry conditions, specified outdoor recreational fires (in-ground campfires, fire bowls and fire pits) are prohibited in the City of Spokane effective today, July 16, 2018, by order of the Spokane City Fire Marshal. The restriction will continue until further notice; such restrictions are subject to change depending on conditions. 

 

Citizens may still use backyard barbecues, manufactured portable outdoor fireplaces or other patio/deck warmers (provided the appliance has a spark arrester and a chimney), approved fuel is used, and weather conditions support safe recreational fires. Approved fuels include seasoned (clean/dry) firewood, charcoal, propane, or natural gas.

 

Other requirements for outdoor fires:

 

• Recreational fires may be in designated areas or on private property with owner approval.
• Keep it small - Fires must not exceed a fuel area of three feet in diameter by two feet in height.
• Fires must be attended by a responsible adult (knowledgeable in the use of the fire extinguishing equipment) at all times.
• Approved fire extinguishing equipment must be on hand and ready for use.
  • Equipment can include a garden hose, dirt, sand, bucket, shovel, or a minimum 4A rated portable fire extinguisher.
• Adequate clearance from combustibles must exist (25 feet in general).
  • For one and two family dwellings, follow the device manufacturer’s instructions for clearance. Be safe and use good judgment.
  • For multifamily dwellings, maintain at least a 15 foot clearance from combustibles and structures. Be safe and use good judgment.
• Fires must not present a health hazard or nuisance to others.
• Safe wind conditions (no more than seven mph) must be present.
• Ash and charcoal remnants must be safely disposed of in noncombustible waste containers.

 

Unsafe or otherwise restricted fires will be required to be extinguished. Failure to comply with the burning restrictions could have serious consequences. A person who fails to take immediate action to extinguish or otherwise discontinue unauthorized burning when ordered to do so is guilty of a misdemeanor. That person can face a fine of up to $1,000 and/or up to 90 days in jail.

 

Please see the attached flyer for additional information.

 

 

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Michele Anderson | Public Safety Communications Manager
Spokane Police Department | Spokane Fire Department

cell 509.742.0063 | office 509.622.5868 | mlanderson@spokanecity.org

 

Fire crews contain rapid moving brush fire

 

Fire crews contain rapid moving brush fire
No injuries reported

 

Last night just before 5:00 p.m., members of the Spokane Fire Department and Spokane County Fire District 9 responded to the 1800 block of W. Liberty Ave. for a reported brush fire near Drumheller Springs Park. Follow up reports into 9-1-1 by citizens on scene indicated homes might be endangered and equipment was called to respond to handle both brush and structural fires.

 

First arriving crews found a rapidly moving brush fire threatening a residence. Crews were able to slow the progress of the fire at the edge of the residence limiting damage to the siding and shrubbery. The wind continued to push the fire and within a few minutes a second home was threatened. Crews were again able to block the path of the fire and kept the second residence from sustaining any significant damage.

 

In total approximately two acres were involved in the fire and one home received mild damage to the exterior. Crews were on scene approximately three hours for containment and mop up of the fire.

 

No civilians, firefighters or pets were injured in the incident.

 

The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department Special Investigation Unit.

 

The Spokane Fire Department would like to remind the public fire conditions in the area are reaching extreme conditions. Continuing hot weather with limited precipitation and higher than normal winds are creating the potential for rapidly escalating fires. Please be extremely cautious when handling any materials that have the ability to start a fire. In the event of a fire, please utilize 9-1-1 immediately.

 

 

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Michele Anderson | Public Safety Communications Manager
Spokane Police Department | Spokane Fire Department

cell 509.742.0063 | office 509.622.5868 | mlanderson@spokanecity.org

 

Eleven people displaced after early morning fire near Gonzaga

Eleven people displaced after early morning fire near Gonzaga
No injuries were reported

 

Eleven people were displaced after an early morning fire broke out at a home near Gonzaga.  

 

At approximately 3:00 a.m., crews from the Spokane Fire Department were dispatched to a report of a fire at a residence in the 100 block of E. Sinto Ave. Neighbors had reported seeing smoke coming from the single family residence. Spokane Police officers arrived on scene and confirmed that there was fire coming from the second floor of the home. 

 

Initial reports were that all occupants were out of the structure, but firefighters were assigned to confirm. The fire heavily damage the second floor with smoke damage throughout the rest of the structure.

 

The American Red Cross was requested to assist the 11 occupants who were displaced and SCRAPS responded to assist with numerous pets.

                                                                                                         

There were no reported injuries to civilians or firefighters.

 

The fire is under investigation by the Spokane Fire Investigative Unit and Spokane Police Department.

 

** Pictures provide by SPD’s Cpl. Teresa Fuller. More photos can be found on SFD’s Facebook page.**

 

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Michele Anderson | Public Safety Communications Manager
Spokane Police Department | Spokane Fire Department

cell 509.742.0063 | office 509.622.5868 | mlanderson@spokanecity.org

 

SFD reminds citizens that fireworks are illegal

 

 

 

SFD reminds citizens that fireworks are illegal
 Consumer fireworks have been illegal for more than 25 years

With the Fourth of July holiday just one week away, the Spokane Fire Department reminds everyone that the sale and use of all amateur (consumer) fireworks is illegal in the cities of Spokane, Spokane Valley, Cheney, Millwood, Liberty Lake and the unincorporated areas of Spokane County.

 

Illegal possession or use of fireworks can result in infractions of $536 for each violation in addition to fines and court costs. Individuals who start a fire are also liable for restitution of damaged property and for the recovery of Fire Department response costs.

 

All fireworks are prohibited, including – but not limited to – non-detonating military devices such as large flares, certain propellants, specialty fireworks and larger devices used in public displays, firecrackers, torpedoes, skyrockets, roman candles, sparklers, bottle rockets and similar materials that contain any explosive or combustible compound.

 

This year marks the 26th year in which all consumer fireworks are illegal. Based on the number of fireworks-caused fires between 1983 and 1992, the fireworks ban has prevented an estimated 2,200 fires. In the 10 years prior to the fireworks ordinance in 1993, firefighters responded to an average of 104 fireworks-caused fires just in the City of Spokane during the nine-day period between June 28 and July 6. During the past 25 years of the ban, the average number of fireworks-caused fires has dramatically dropped to five. Prior to the ban, there were so many fireworks-caused fires around the Fourth of July that some emergency medical calls to 9-1-1 had to be stacked until first responders could be dispatched.

 

In addition to the number of fires and injuries caused by consumer fireworks each year, fireworks can have a negative impact on neighbors, pets, and veterans suffering from Posttraumatic Stress Disorder.

Violations of the fireworks ban should be reported to Crime Check at (509) 456-2233.

 

The Spokane Fire Department would like to wish the community a Happy Independence Day and encourage everyone to celebrate the holiday safely by leaving fireworks up to the professionals. Everyone is invited to the community celebration on July 4th at Riverfront Park, starting at noon and continuing until the 10 p.m. fireworks display provided by licensed pyrotechnicians.

 

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Michele Anderson | Public Safety Communications Manager
Spokane Police Department | Spokane Fire Department

cell 509.742.0063 | office 509.622.5868 | mlanderson@spokanecity.org

 

The Spokane Police and Fire Departments want to remind HoopFest fans to have fun and also stay safe

The Spokane Police and Fire Departments want to remind HoopFest fans to have fun and also stay safe

 

To ensure the largest 3-on-3 basketball tournament in the world remains safe and fun, City of Spokane public safety officials ask attendees to follow a few safety tips.

 

The Spokane Police Department will be helping to provide security and safety for all Hoopfest fans. In addition, the Spokane Fire Department’s PedMed Program, a special operations program that deploys fire department paramedics in areas that are routinely inaccessible due to large crowds or terrain will be working throughout the event. Additional behind the scenes measures will be implemented as well.

 

To help ensure the safety of people attending as well as those that are in the area, public safety officials are asking for the community’s help by following a few safety tips:

 

• Choose an alternative route to avoid congestion if you do not need to be downtown.
• Take public transportation if you can.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Immediately report suspicious activity to law enforcement officials.
• Never leave children unattended.
• Lock ALL vehicle doors and secure windows. If possible use a vehicle anti-theft device.
• Do not leave any valuables in vehicles.
• Drivers should slow down and be aware of extra pedestrian activity.
• Pedestrians should exercise extra caution and watch for traffic.
• Do not leave purses or bags unattended. 
• Animals are prohibited during special events, so please leave them at home (service animals are permitted).
• Remember open containers are not allowed.

 

Yellow and/or red bags have been placed on many meters in the downtown area. Please do not park at meters that are bagged or your vehicle will be towed. These areas will be used for Hoopfest equipment, emergency vehicles, event equipment vehicles, and STA buses.

 

With warmer temperatures expected for the event, the Spokane Fire Department wants to remind attendees and participants of the importance of preventing heat related illnesses by following a few safety tips:

 

• Avoid heavy exertion, extreme heat, sun exposure, and high humidity when possible.
• If you are active, monitor your physical condition and that of your friends or teammates for signs or symptoms of heat illnesses.
• Drink plenty of water – don't wait until you're thirsty to drink more fluids.
• Wear light-colored, loose-fitting, breathable clothing such as cotton.

 

Throughout the year, the safety of our community is of the utmost importance to your Spokane Police and Fire Departments. We are dedicated to making sure our community is safe and secure each day of the year and during all of our special events.

 

The 2018 Hoopfest map can be found here.

 

 

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Michele Anderson | Public Safety Communications Manager
Spokane Police Department | Spokane Fire Department

cell 509.742.0063 | office 509.622.5868 | mlanderson@spokanecity.org

 

House fire remains under investigation

 

House fire remains under investigation
No injuries reported

 

A fire remains under investigation after damaging a detached garage and spreading to an unoccupied home in east central Spokane.

 

The fire started just before 6 p.m. last evening at a single family residence in the 100 block of E. Providence Ave.

 

First arriving crews noted heavy fire involvement in the detached garage behind the residence. The fire was spreading into the eaves of the home and had involved the attic area. Fire crews entered the structure to locate and extinguish the fire while performing a search of the building for occupants. The house was determined to be clear of any occupants. Firefighters were able to effectively bring the fire under control within minutes of entering the structure. The house sustained significant fire damage to the first floor and attic and smoke damage throughout, the detached garage behind the home also suffered heavy fire damage.

 

There were no reported injuries to firefighters or civilians.

 

Anyone with information about the fire should call 509-625-7000 so the information can be forwarded to the Spokane Fire Department Special Investigations Unit.

 

 

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Michele Anderson | Public Safety Communications Manager
Spokane Police Department | Spokane Fire Department

cell 509.742.0063 | office 509.622.5868 | mlanderson@spokanecity.org

 

Improperly discarded smoking materials to blame for early morning fire

 

Improperly discarded smoking materials to blame for early morning fire

Fire investigators say improperly discarded smoking materials caused this morning’s fire at a commercial building.

 

At approximately 5:47 a.m., the Spokane Fire Department responded to the 3800 block of E.  Boone Ave. on a report of a commercial structure fire. 

 

The first arriving engine company reported smoke and flames visible from the exterior of the building and extending inside. Firefighters immediately initiated fire attack on the exterior. Additional crews gained entry into the structure to check for fire extension and conducted a search of the interior to ensure no one was inside.

 

Crews contained the fire to the exterior of the building and extinguished it within 5 minutes of the first fire crews arriving on scene.

 

No injuries to civilians or firefighters were reported.

 

The Spokane Fire Department would like to remind the community about some important safety tips related to smoking.

 

• Put cigarettes out in an ashtray or bucket with sand. Use ashtrays with a wide base so they won’t tip over and start a fire.
• Put cigarettes out completely. Don’t walk away from lit cigarettes and other smoking materials. Put water on the ashes and butts to ensure they are out before they are properly discarded. 
• Be alert. Do not smoke after taking medications that cause drowsiness.
• Never smoke around medical oxygen. Medical oxygen can explode if a flame or spark is near. Even if the oxygen is turned off, it can still catch on fire.
• Never smoke in bed. Mattresses and bedding can catch on fire easily. Do not smoke in bed because you might fall asleep with a lit cigarette.
• Smoke outside. Many things in a home or business can ignite if they touch something hot like a cigarette or ashes.

 

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Michele Anderson | Public Safety Communications Manager
Spokane Police Department | Spokane Fire Department

cell 509.742.0063 | office 509.622.5868 | mlanderson@spokanecity.org