Emergency preparedness training offered for special or specfic needs populations

The Spokane Regional Health District and the Spokane City/County Emergency Management Division are sponsoring training for agencies to help prepare their special or specific needs clients for the next emergency. As you are well aware, we hear stories from local emergencies (such as the 2008 winter storms, the large fires in the City, and the Valley View fire), and other disasters on a national and international level, where improvements can be made in preparations for dealing with Special Needs and Specific Needs populations during incidents. This conference will help our area become better informed of just how we can do that.

The Training will be offered March 18, from 8:30-4:00 pm. Cost is $40, including lunch. Ana-Marie Jones, Executive Director of CARD (Collaborating Agencies Responding to Disasters will be the guest facilitator.

During this training, you will:

• Learn how to move yourself, staff, clients and neighborhood beyond fear based or threat messages to action-based, empowering messages.
• Learn aspects of disaster planning that can make your agency and our community more resilient.
• Learn how to engage yourself and clients in simple, fun ways to become more personally prepared for any emergency.

Who Should Attend?

• Agencies concerned with persons who have specific communication, mobility or medical needs.
• Individuals who want to be better prepared for a disaster.
• Traditional first responders (Fire, Law Enforcement, DEM, Red Cross)

For more information on registering, contact Jan Doherty at (509) 625-7058 or jdoherty@spokanefire.org

SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509)625-7002

ISSUING OFFICER: Bob Green/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/29/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1107 W. Carlisle
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99205

NARRATIVE: The Spokane City Fire Dept. Dispatch Center received a call at 10:34 in the morning on Thursday, Jan. 29th, reporting that there was smoke coming from a house located at 1107 W. Carlisle. After gathering all pertinent information from the caller, the Dispatcher sent fire fighting crews and their apparatus responding to this address for a possible house fire. The first fire crew to arrive on scene reported heavy smoke issuing from under the eaves and coming out of the roof. That first arriving Officer made assignments to the other incoming crews by radio and then proceeded to make entry into the building in an effort to determine not only the cause of the smoke but also to determine where it was coming from. As the other responding crews arrived on scene they began to go about completing their pre-assigned tasks of search and rescue, fire attack, ventilation (both vertical and horizontal), and laddering the building. The fire posed some initial problems to the fire crews in that it was burning in the confined spaces of the building and spreading into the attic and the under-side of the roof assembly. In order to find the fire, firefighters used power saws, pike poles, axes, and other hand tools to dig this stubborn fire out from the walls and ceilings. As this "opening-up" proceeded, crews were finally able to get water on the fire and get a pretty good knock down on it. There were two adults in the home at the time of the fire that were able to escape with a pet dog, the family cat was not located but it is hoped that he used one of his nine lives and escaped successfully. The two children who live at the home were at school. There were no reports of any injuries to the tenants or to the fire fighters at the incident. Red Cross was requested to the scene to assist the family since damage to the interior of the house and to the structural members of the roof was considerable and extensive repairs will need to be completed before anyone will be allowed to live in the structure. Avista was notified and responded to pull the electrical supply to the house because many of the electrical circuits were severely damaged. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by members of the Spokane City Fire Dept.'s Special Investigation Unit. Preliminary indications point to the fireplace and the structural support members of the building that were in direct contact with the brick and mortar of that fireplace, a fairly common construction practice in older homes of this area. Seven pieces of fire apparatus and two Command Vehicles delivered 25 fire fighters to this morning fire.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Old, dry, wooden structrural components being in direct contact with the brick and mortar of an older masonary fireplace which has been used to augment the other heating systems of the building.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The walls, ceilings, floors, and a closet that were near the chimney, which was centrally located in the house, received heavy damage. The attic and especially the under-side of the roof system sustained severe damage. Smoke damage to the contents was kept to a minimum since most of the smoke traveled upward through the attic and out the roof.
DOLLAR LOSS: 30000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 25
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509)625-7002

ISSUING OFFICER: Craig Cornelius / Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/28/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 3503 E. 36th Ave
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: On Wednesday, January 28, 2009 at 1:55PM the Spokane Fire Department dispatched a full alarm consisting of 6 fire apparatus and 2 chief officers to a reported house fire located at 3503 E. 36th Ave. The first arriving company, E14 under the direction of Lt. John Trautman arrived at the scene within 5 minutes of being dispatched.

The initial report from Lt. Trautman was that the home had fire on its rear side and that the fire had possibly entered the rear portion of the home. Engine 14s crew immediately stretched pre-connected hose lines to extinguish the fire. Simultaneously, other crews searched and verified that the home was not occupied. The main body of the fire was knocked down within 5 minutes. Crews were on the scene for a couple of hours making sure the fire was out.

Firefighters found 3 dogs inside the home and several cats. All of the animals are in good condition and have been reconnected with their owners.

There were no injuries at this incident. Damage was confined to the rear of the home and a portion of the kitchen. The cause of this fire is still under investigation, but does not appear to be suspicious at this time.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause is still under investigation.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Rear of home and kitchen.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 20
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509)625-7002

ISSUING OFFICER: Joel Fielder/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/27/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 4203 North Calispel
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: - This morning, the Spokane Fire Department responded at 12:53 AM to 4203 North Calispel on a reported structure fire. The first crew on-scene reported light smoke showing from the front door of a 1-story, house. Further investigation by the on scene fire crews found fire burning within a wall next to a brick fire place. The fire crews gained access to the wall and quickly extinguished the fire. Fire damage was confined to the wall only with no fire extension into the attic. The fire was brought under control within 10 minutes and there were no reported injuries to firefighters.

The two occupants of the house were asleep at the time of the fire and were alerted by the sounding of their smoke detector as the house was filling up with smoke. The Spokane Fire Department would like to take this opportunity to express the well known fact that properly working smoke detectors do save lives.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The fire was caused by combustible, structural framing members that supported the brick chimney igniting from the heat of the fire place
DAMAGE EXTENT: Fire Damage was confined to an interior wall and the brick fireplace
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 22
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509)625-7002

ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Mike Inman
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/25/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 4103 W. Sanson
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99205

NARRATIVE: At 3 am January 25, 2009 the Spokane Fire Department dispatched 6 fire apparatus and 2 Battalion Chiefs to a reported house fire across the street from 4108 W. Sanson in Spokane, Washington. Engine 16 was the first fire crew on scene. They arrived very quickly as their Fire Station is less than a mile from the incident. Upon arrival Engine 16 reported the basement of a split level house at 4103 W. Sanson fully involved and upgraded the fire to a working fire requesting an additional Engine Company and a fire investigator. A rapid fire attack by Engine 16 was started and their efforts stopped the spread of the fire. The crew advanced the hose line through the house for further fire attack and extinguishing hot spots. The next apparatus on scene was Pumper Ladder 13 and they backed up Engine 16 as well as beginning a search of the house for anyone still inside. Additional crews arrived to assist with water supply from a nearby hydrant, ventilation of heat and smoke from the house and a safety backup team. The fire was quickly brought under control, no residents were still inside but 3 pets did not make it out. Two cats and a bird died in the fire. The residents were asked if they were awaken by their smoke detectors but said they were not as they did not have batteries in them. There were no injuries to civilians or Firefighters, Red Cross was called for the displaced 4 residents, Spokanimal was called for the deceased pets and AVISTA to disconnect electrical and gas services to the burned structure. 26 Firefighters responded on 4 fire Engines, 1 ladder truck, 1 pumper ladder, 1 rescue unit and 2 staff vehicles. The fire is under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department. At this time the Spokane Fire Department would like to remind the public to make sure their smoke detectors are operational and change the batteries at least twice a year. Do not count on someone smelling smoke and waking up as this is not a reliable way to alert the occupants of a home to fire.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Unknown. It is under investigation by the Spokane Fire Dept.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Extensive fire damage to the room of origin with heavy heat and smoke damage throughout the house.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 26
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509)625-7002

ISSUING OFFICER: Bruce Moline/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/23/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 4314 N. Stevens
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99205

NARRATIVE: On January 23rd, 2008 at 8:41 A.M. the Spokane Fire Department responded 3 engine companies, 1 ladder company, 1 pumper ladder company, 1 rescue unit and 2 battalion chiefs to a report of a garage fire located at 4314 N. Stevens. Fire crews found a garage behind a home that was well involved in fire. A knockdown of the fire was successful and was achieved after 10 minutes. A live power line had dropped during the fire and the area was cleared out in order to isolate and protect civilians and firefighters from electrical shock. The Avista Company arrived shortly and shut down the power. The structure and its contents sustained heavy fire damage. The cause of this fire was an improperly discarded cigarette inside the garage. There were no injuries to civilians or firefighters. A total of 21 firefighters responded to this fire.

PROBABLE CAUSE: An improperly discarded cigarette.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The wood frame garage and contents were severely damaged by the fire.
DOLLAR LOSS: 18,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 21
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509)625-7002

ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Dan Brown
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/23/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: !906 West Pacific
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99204

NARRATIVE: On 1/23/09 at 5:51 PM the City of Spokane fire department responded 8 fire apparatus 27 Firefighters and 2 command personnel to 1906 West Pacific for a reported fire in the Mary Manor apartments. Fire companies from Station 4 on arrival reported smoke showing from one of the lower apartments. Attack leads were advanced into the apartment and a quick knock down of the main body of the fire took place. Crews search the upper floors and lower floors for any residents that were not accounted for. Other crews checked the apartments above and adjacent to the fire room for any fire extension. The fire was contained to the kitchen and declared out in about 15 minutes. Overhaul took about one hour. Once the smoke was cleared out the residents were allowed to return to their apartments. There were no reports of any injuries. Fire investigators were called to the scene and it was determined that this was an accidental fire. On adult male was displaced, Red Cross was notified.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Accidental , kitchen fire.
DAMAGE EXTENT: KItchen was burned out. Smoke damage through out.
DOLLAR LOSS: 25000.00
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 27
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

Babysitting Basics class offered

Community Health Education Resources (CHER) is offering a baby sitting class to the Spokane Community. This full day program is offered to 10 to 15 year old boys and girls that are interested in babysitting.The course covers the responsibilities of the parents and the sitter, infant and toddler care, safety and first aid techniques, infant and child CPR and discipline issues.

For more information visit:

http://www.cherspokane.org/Sub.aspx?id=140

Probationary Firefighters pass one last test

The Spokane Fire Department would like to congratulate the members of Recruit Class 2008-1 on completing the last step in their probationary year. On Monday, the recruits successfully passed their "Gold Room" examinations. The test covers everything the probationary firefighters have learned in the last year. Recruits are tested on firefighting tactics, rules and regulations of the Spokane Fire Department and knowledge of the streets of Spokane, among other topics. The Gold Room marks the end of the probationary year that began with the recruit academy last February. Congratulations to the following Firefighter for successfully completing their Gold Room examinations.


Dennis Bradbury
Jared Contabile
Nathan Cover
Ryan Davis
Mike DeLamatter
Adam Knapp
Justin Maisch
Nathan Mulkey
Mike St. Amand
Mike Vaughn
Pat Walsh

The Spokane Fire Department is very proud of the hard work and dedication each of the folks has demonstrated to complete all of their probationary requirements.

SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509)625-7002

ISSUING OFFICER: Ken Kirsch/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/19/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2319 E. Springfield
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: On 01/19/09 at approximately 2332 hrs units of the City of Spokane Fire Department responded to 2319 E. Springfield upon report of a structure fire. First arriving fire departments units found a one story, wood-frame, single family residence heavily involved in fire. Approximately one half of the main floor was on fire as well as nearly the entire attic. Initial crews advanced pre-connected hose-lines to attack the fire on the main floor. After that fire was knocked down firefighters concentrated on attacking the fire in the attic. This task was made extremely difficult by the heavy construction of the ceiling materials, making access to the attic a time consuming process. While several crews battled the fire other members ventilated the roof, protected nearby buildings, and opened up areas that may conceal hidden fire. Initial fire crews were on scene for approximately 3 hrs, with other crews to be on scene the rest of the night. Two occupants were home at the time of the fire and both escaped safely.

Twenty-three firefighters on nine apparatus battled this blaze. No injuries were reported to either firefighters or civilians.

PROBABLE CAUSE: This fire is currently under investigation and the cause is undetermined. Fire investigators will be back on scene in the morning to continue their efforts to determine the fire cause.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The home is considered a total loss. Significant fire damage is evident to the south half of the main floor and to a major portion of the attic. Areas not damaged by fire have suffered smoke and/or water damage. Total dollar loss may be $100,000.
DOLLAR LOSS: 100,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 23
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509)625-7002

ISSUING OFFICER: Ken Kirsch/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/18/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1317 S Lacey
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: On 01/18/09 at approximately 1834 hrs units of the City of Spokane Fire Department responded to 1317 S. Lacey upon report of a structure fire. First arriving fire department units found smoke coming from a 1 ½ story, wood-frame, single family structure. Crews advanced a pre-connected hose-line through the front door to the rear of the first floor of the structure and found fire within a kitchen wall. The wall was quickly opened up and the fire was quickly extinguished. At the same time other fire crews were busy completing tasks such as: checking the second floor of the residence for fire extension, laddering the roof in case ventilation in that area was necessary, placing tarps in various areas of the residence to protect the tenants personal items from smoke and water damage, as well as overhauling the fire area to detect potential hidden fire.

A total of 27 firefighters on 10 apparatus fought this blaze. No injuries to either firefighters or civilians were reported. Two adults and one child lived at the residence and escaped the residence unharmed. Firefighters were on this fire scene for over two hours.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire is currently under investigation but appears to have started inside a wall in close proximity to electrical wiring. Fire investigators will have more on the cause of this fire in the near future.
DAMAGE EXTENT: . Fire damage was confined mainly to a first floor kitchen wall and the adjacent bathroom, with minor fire damage evident in the attic above these areas. Minor smoke damage was also evident throughout the residence.
DOLLAR LOSS: 15,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 27
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509)625-7002

ISSUING OFFICER: Bruce Moline/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/16/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 3014 N. Cincinnati
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99207

NARRATIVE: On January 16th, 2009 at 3:53 A.M. the Spokane Fire Department responded 3 engine companies, 2 ladder companies, a rescue unit and 2 battalion chiefs to a house fire at 3014 N. Cincinnati. Firefighters encountered flames coming from the roof area of a one and a half story house upon their arrival. A rapid and thorough search for victims of the home was begun and at the same time hose lines were stretched to the interior of the home where the fire was found to be rapidly extending into the walls and attic space on the upper level. It was then confirmed that all 5 occupants (two adults and three children) made their escape successfully from the home. It was however, discovered that they did not have a working smoke detector. A "knockdown" of the fire was achieved after 15 minutes. Crews remained on the scene for 2 ½ hours performing final extinguishment including searching for hotspots with their thermal imaging cameras. A total of 20 firefighters participated in controlling this fire. The Red Cross was summoned to the scene after it was determined that the smoke and heat damage was significant. The fire is currently being investigated by the Spokane Fire Department Special Investigative Unit and at this time, it appears that the fire may have been electrical in origin. The family of 5 will be taken care of by the Red Cross who will be providing lodging. It should be noted that this family did make it out of their burning home, however their smoke detector did not activate due to a poor battery. This family is very lucky to escape as they were sleeping at the time of the fire. Because most fire deaths occur from smoke in the home at night during sleeping hours, it is extremely important that a fresh battery be kept inside smoke detectors. Test batteries at least monthly and replace them at least once a year. Install smoke detectors on every level of your home. Smoke detectors save lives!

PROBABLE CAUSE: The fire is currently under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department Special Investigation Unit. The focus at this time, is on electrical power as a possible source of the fire.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The wood frame home suffered extensive damage to the upper level attic space and also sustained smoke damage throughout.
DOLLAR LOSS: 30,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 20
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509)625-7002

ISSUING OFFICER: Bob Green/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/13/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1528 E Boone Ave.
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99202

NARRATIVE: The Spokane City Fire Dept. responded fire fighting crews and their apparatus to 1528 E. Boone Ave. at 6:41 on the morning of Jan. 13th, 2009, for a reported structure fire. As fire crews were responding to this address they received additional reports from Fire Dispatch advising them that the four occupants of the structure had exited safely from the building. The first arriving fire crew reported that there was light smoke coming from the front of the structure and that they were preparing to enter to investigate for the cause of the smoke. Eventually two more fire fighting crews were assigned to assist in this investigation as they began arriving on scene. Armed with fire hoses, axes, pike poles, and thermal imaging cameras, these crews were able to dig out this fire from the walls and ceilings that were keeping it from being seen. Once uncovered the fire was quickly contained and extinguished by the crews who were inside doing their assigned work. There were no reports of any injuries to the fire fighters at the scene or to the occupants of the building. This particular house was divided into two apartments; an upper unit which was occupied by the building owner, and a lower unit occupied by a young couple and their infant. The younger couple is being assisted by the Red Cross as their unit will be without electricity until electrical repairs can be completed. The owner, who resides in the upper portion of the duplex, may have to make other short-term living arrangements as well. An investigator from the Spokane Fire Dept.'s Special Investigation Unit was on scene shortly after the fire had been extinguished and his preliminary investigation has focused on the electrical system in the building as being the probable cause of this early morning fire. Damage to the structural members of the building was kept to a minimum since the fire crews were able to expose the fire and extinguish it before it could get a good foot-hold on the structure. Once the electrical repairs have been made and other additional interior repairs are finished, the house should once again be habitable.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The electrical system in the house is the apparent cause for the fire.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Damage to the electrical system is severe, structural damage was fairly slight, limited water damage, some smoke damage throughout the building, and some interior cosmetic damage was caused by having to breach walls in the search for the fire.
DOLLAR LOSS: 10,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 25
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

Shovel a fire hydrant

SFD changing EMS response procedures to health care facilities

The Spokane Fire Department will be holding a meeting for health care providers to explain upcoming changes in the Emergency Medical Response system to health care facilities.

Due to the on-going rate of call volume growth, we continue to evaluate our responses to incidents to determine if there are incident types where SFD resources may not be needed. Our review of EMS incidents has reaffirmed that there is a duplication of resources, from the Fire Department and AMR, to calls made directly to AMR for “medical transport only”.

Historically, we have heard feedback from some facilities that for a “transport only” call, a response of SFD was not necessary. Traditionally, the County EMS Medical Director has required that the 9-1-1 EMS response system be activated for these calls, necessitating the response of both SFD and AMR resources. However, with the number of EMS incidents in the community escalating, thus causing an increased response time on calls due to lack of availability of SFD units, the Medical Director has authorized discontinuance of the 9-1-1 EMS system activation for these “transport only” calls.

Beginning Monday, February 2, 2009 on any “transport only” call made directly to AMR, SFD may not respond resources depending on the information health care facilities provide to AMR at the time of the call. If it is clear that the facility has assessed the patient, can provide the necessary level of care for the patient until arrival of an AMR unit, and only are requesting patient transport to the hospital, AMR will respond alone to the call. If AMR dispatchers interpret through medical interrogation, that such is not the case or that they are not able to respond in a timely manner the 9-1-1 EMS response system will be utilized and SFD resources will supplement the AMR response.

Please know that SFD Companies will continue to be available if AMR needs emergency assistance on ANY of these requests. Additionally, this change in response to “transport only calls” should not change health care facilities procedure of directly calling 9-1-1 when they have a medical emergency. SFD will still be responding on the “Emergent Calls” at health care facilities which are initiated through a 9-1-1 call or deemed by AMR to be emergent.

The Spokane Fire Department will hold a meeting for interested health care providers on January 14th at 1:30 pm to better explain our services, answer questions and allow a more formal introduction to the SFD. AMR will also have representatives at the session. The session will be held in the Auditorium at the SFD Training Building located at 1618 N. Rebecca just east of the SCC campus.

Questions about this procedure change may be directed to Rich Kness, EMS Division Chief at (509) 625-7090.

SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509)625-7002

ISSUING OFFICER: Craig Cornelius / Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/6/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: HazMat
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1717 E. Sinto
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99291

NARRATIVE: On Tuesday, January 06, 2009 at 07:20AM the Spokane Fire Department dispatched Engine 7 to investigate the report of a gas like smell in the school kitchen at Stevens Elementary School located at 1717 E. Sinto.

Engine 7 under the direction of Lt. Kelly Smith arrived on the scene and made contact with the school's kitchen personnel. Lt. Smith was briefed of their concerns. She was informed that the school had not started, but that they already had early arriving students and teachers. Lt. Smith called in a regular fire department response to prepare for the anticipated arrival of the students. The school faculty had already initiated their school evacuation plan.

A unified command was established. Included at the command post location were fire department chief officers, the school's principal officers, and Spokane Police and staff members from Spokane Public Schools. Personnel from the fire department's Hazardous Materials Team and Avista were brought in for air monitoring. A request was made for buses to provide a warm place for the children.

Strategic objectives were established and included provisions for the evacuation of the school, accountability and protection of the students, an assessment of the potential leak issue and its abatement. In the event the fire department could not solve the problem, the school faculty started preparing for parent notification and the reunification with their children.

A Haz Mat entry group was established. The kitchen staff and maintenance personnel were interviewed while the Haz Mat group searched the entire school, monitoring the air as they went. This group uses specialized instrumentation that monitors for Carbon Monoxide, Natural Gas, and the current Oxygen levels. Command identified that one of the school's air handling systems that normally ventilates the kitchen area was shut down during the holiday break. This system was reactivated by maintenance personnel and the kitchen area was quickly ventilated.

A secondary search and an air monitoring of every room in the school was performed by the Haz Mat group. CO and Gas levels were zero. The Oxygen levels were slightly under 21 percent which is normal. Avista gas specialists checked out the gas appliances feeding the kitchen area. No deficiencies were found. Students and teachers were allowed to re-enter the school and start the day.

The Stevens Elementary Faculty did an outstanding job assisting the Fire Department at this incident. The representatives that responded from the Spokane Public Schools were very supportive and demonstrated the highest regard for the safety of the students and workers.

PROBABLE CAUSE: A ventilation system that was shut down.
DAMAGE EXTENT: None
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 28
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509)625-7002

ISSUING OFFICER: Brian Schaeffer
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/6/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Special Situation
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 6619 North Cedar
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99208

NARRATIVE: On Tuesday, January 6, 2009 at 05:26 AM, 2 Companies of Spokane Firefighters and 2 Chief Officers responded to a reported building collapse at 6619 North Cedar. There were four businesses which inhabited the building, however only one was open. The building was occupied by three civilians at the time of the collapse and all three were outside the structure, safely, at the time of the call. The calling party also advised that he believed the utilities were not involved and the collapse appeared to be mainly in the north side.

When Firefighters arrived they reported a 100' x 130' building that had suffered a significant collapse on 30 percent of the structure. The companies secured a perimeter and limited access to only Fire and Utility Company personnel. The fire companies were able to safely secure the utilities and assist the water department in locating shut off's beneath the snow.

No injuries were reported and the Fire Department assisted occupants in securing their property and limiting loss to the best of their ability.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Snow load.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Significant to North Side of the building.
DOLLAR LOSS: 100000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 10
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509)625-7002

ISSUING OFFICER: Brian Schaeffer
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/6/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Special Situation
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 6363 North Smith, Arlington Elementary School
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99208

NARRATIVE: On Tuesday, January 6, 2009 at 10:32 AM, 8 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 5 Engines, 1 Heavy Rescue and 2 Senior Ladders under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Cornelius and Inman responded to a reported fire in the building at 6363 North Smith, Arlington Elementary School.

Firefighters arrived quickly to the school and found all children, staff and faculty had evacuated correctly within the playground area. Companies were told that a haze and odor of smoke was present in the boiler area. A unified command post was established immediately with the school's principal staff and Police Department which quickly established unified strategic goals and objectives to manage the incident. Fortunately, preparations were already in place for this emergency and were available to the Incident Commander in the Fire Department's "Rapid Responder" Program. The information aided decision-making, locations for access/utility shutoffs and contacts for additional, specialized resources.

The fire companies were quickly able to control the building and isolate the source of the odor. Using instrumentation from the HazMat Team, they thoroughly confirmed that no hazards were present in the building and let the occupants back into the school in an organized fashion.

Cooperation and assistance from Spokane Public Schools' staff cannot be over stated. We regard the competence of the staff at the Arlington Elementary School in the highest regard and their performance in this incident was nothing less than exceptional.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The exact cause of the odor is unknown, however most likely attributed to nearby wood burning stove/fireplaces that were introduced into the HVAC system due to the atmospheric conditions.
DAMAGE EXTENT: No damage.
DOLLAR LOSS: 0
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 30
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509)625-7002

ISSUING OFFICER: Brian Schaeffer
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/6/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 5720 North G Street
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99208

NARRATIVE: On Tuesday, January 6, 2009 at 09:16 AM, 7 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 4 Engines, 1 Heavy Rescue, 1 Senior Ladder, 1 Pumper-Ladder under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Inman and Cornelius responded to a residence fire at 5720 North G Street.

Firefighters from the neighborhood Fire Station (Station 16) arrived within 5 minutes to discover a single family residence with smoke showing. Engine 16 and neighboring Engine 17 forced entry to the home under heavy smoke and heat conditions to discover a working basement fire. The alarm was upgraded to a working fire and efforts by arriving companies were focused at searching the home for trapped occupants and confining the fire to the area of origin.

A well coordinated interior fire attack combined with ventilation efforts allowed firefighters to quickly gain the upper hand on the fire. Firefighters were able to rescue two cats and one dog during their search. All three animals received emergency medical by crews on scene, including oxygen via special masks provided by a local Veterinarian group. All three animals were resuscitated and recovering well at the time of this release. The fire was controlled in just 15-minutes and was confined to the basement. There were no injuries reported.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause is under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department's Special Investigation Unit.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The home suffered heat, smoke and water damage.
DOLLAR LOSS: 25,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 25
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509)625-7002

ISSUING OFFICER: Craig Cornelius / Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/2/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Special Situation
INCIDENT ADDRESS: Mallon and Lincoln
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: At 10:06 AM, 5 companies of Spokane Firefighters and 1 Chief Officer responded to Mallon and Lincoln for a reported building collapse at Buck's Automotive. The initial dispatch report stated that a man had been seen shoveling snow on the roof shortly before the collapse. Engine 3, the first arriving company reported that the entire bay area of the automotive business had collapsed due to snow loads. The business owner who had been working earlier on the roof was in good condition. No injuries were incurred at this incident. The collapsed portion of the structure was in a new addition with a flat roof. This building complex is made up of several sections built at different time periods. Some sagging of the trusses was identified in one of the other adjacent sections. The decision was made to vacate and secure the entire structure until it can be surveyed for safety by a building engineer.
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PROBABLE CAUSE: Heavy Snow Load
DAMAGE EXTENT: 50 Percent of Buck's Automotive
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE:
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509)625-7002

ISSUING OFFICER: Brian Schaeffer
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/2/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Special Situation
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2801 N Pittsburg
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99217

NARRATIVE: At 10:49AM, 6 companies of Spokane Firefighters responded to 2801 N Pittsburg, Interior Solutions, on a reported building collapse. Companies were told that a worker may be present at the facility during the collapse, however that was determined to not to be the case and the worker was accounted for. Avista is in the process of disconnecting the electrical utilizes to the building. The building to the north has also moved their vehicles and equipment due to the collapse potential. Units are currently clearing the scene, however if you need additional information, call my cell.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Snow pack.
DAMAGE EXTENT: 45 percent of the roof is collapsed onto predominately product storage.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE:
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509)625-7002

ISSUING OFFICER: Brian Schaeffer
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/2/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Special Situation
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 7011 N Division
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99208

NARRATIVE: At 08:14 Seven Companies of Spokane Firefighters were dispatched to a reported natural gas line break at 7011 N Division. At this point the building has suffered a catastrophic collapse and personnel on scene have been concentrating on controlling the utilities (disconnecting natural gas and electrical) as well as accounting for all employees that may have been present on the inside. The building occupants that are affected include; Futon Visions, Added Touch Framing and Donuts to Go. Roads affected include Division southbound from Cozza to Francis (closed). Estimated time on scene at this point is 2 hours.

PROBABLE CAUSE: N/A
DAMAGE EXTENT: N/A
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE:
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE