On Wednesday October 8, 2008 at 8:11 AM Spokane Engine 16 was dispatched to a power line down near the intersections and Hartley. Upon arrival, Engine 16 reported an arcing power line down and a vehicle that was on fire. As the company officer walked around the structure, he noted a fire that was spreading between two homes; completely separated from the vehicle fire. Flames were appearing from the ground under pressure in random areas without an obvious source. It was determined that a natural gas leak below ground and the alarm was upgraded to include a hazardous materials team response. Seven additional companies of Spokane Firefighters, 4 Engines, 2 Senior Ladders and 1 Heavy Rescue under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Sabo and Green responded. 
As companies arrived on-scene they were utilized to remove occupants from nearby homes and establish a perimeter around the natural gas leak. The fire was extinguished using foam additives by the SFD Engine companies and Avista Utility response crews secured both energized electrical lines as well as the natural gas leak. SFD HazMat Team members monitored natural gas levels inside the involved homes and provided ventilation where necessary.
The incident was mitigated within two hours and fire companies have returned to service. Utilities are expected to remain on scene for several hours. Neither civilians nor firefighters were injured during the incident.
PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause is under investigation by SFD's SIU.
DAMAGE EXTENT: A passenger vehicle sustained significant damage. Additionally, metal fences and exterior areas on homes received varying levels of damage. Natural gas service has been disconnected to several homes and Avista is the primary media contact for estimates on restoration of utility service.28
DOLLAR LOSS: 5000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 28
MUTUAL AID: None Given
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