Press Release; IAWF Ember Award For Excellence in Wildland Fire Science

See attached “Press Release” for more information, and attached photo of recipient N. P. Cheney.

 

 

 “Ember Award for Excellence in Wildland Fire Science”

Presented to Phillip Cheney at IAWF’s 3^rd Fire Behavior and Fuels Conference®;

Held in Spokane, Washington, USA (October 25-29, 2010)

 

The International Association of Wildland Fire (IAWF) is pleased to present its Ember Award for Excellence in Wildland Fire Science to Noel Phillip (Phil) Cheney (CSIRO Senior Principal Research Scientist, retired; Waramanga, ACT, Australia) at its ongoing 3^rd Fire Behavior and Fuels Conference® in Spokane.

 

The award was received by Roger Underwood from Perth, Australia in Phil’s stead at the conference banquet Wednesday evening.  Roger Underwood was a plenary speaker at the conference and is a long-time friend and colleague of Phil’s.

 

The purpose of the “Ember Award” is to recognize sustained excellence in wildland fire research and to encourage innovation, exploration, application, and dissemination of important research results.  The name “Ember” reflects the fact that research and science often move slowly, and their benefits or impacts may not be apparent for years.  The award was established to recognize sustained and excellent research contributions to wildland fire science, innovative solutions to important wildland fire challenges, and effective and appropriate communication of wildland fire science and research results.

 

The International Association of Wildland Fire (IAWF) is a non-profit, professional association representing members of the global wildland fire community. The purpose of the association is to facilitate communication and provide leadership for the wildland fire community.

 

Chuck Bushey, President

International Association of Wildland Fire

 

Mobil (406) 697-2454

President(at)iawfonline.org

http://iawfonline.org

 

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

ISSUING OFFICER: AC Brian Schaeffer
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/26/2010
INCIDENT TYPE: Special Rescue
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2811 West St. Thomas Moore Way
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99208

NARRATIVE: On Tuesday, October 26, 2010 at 01:56 AM, 5 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 1 Heavy Rescue, 1 Pumper/Ladder, 2 Paramedic Engines, 1 Senior Ladder under the direction of Battalion Chief Dan Brown responded to a motor vehicle collision with extrication at 2811 West St. Thomas Moore Way.

The Spokane Police Department notified the Fire Dispatch Center of the traffic accident and had reported during an update that there was a person trapped inside the vehicle. When Fire Department resources arrived on scene and assessed the incident, it was quickly upgraded to an extrication response with additional resources to include two AMR ambulances.

The single car rollover accident had severely trapped one occupant and ejected the other. The victims were treated by SFD Paramedics on-scene. Mechanical extrication was performed to free the trapped occupant and both victims were transported to local hospitals emergently. Specific details regarding the accident and patient status are part of an ongoing investigation by SPD. Fire Department resources remained on the scene to assist investigators and mitigate the hazards that remained after the crash.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause is under investigation by SPD.
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

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

ISSUING OFFICER: AC Brian Schaeffer
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/26/2010
INCIDENT TYPE: Information
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 44 West Riverside
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: With the arrival of colder seasonal winds, Spokane Fire Department reminds everyone in the Pacific Northwest to use caution at home, in the workplace and on the road.

With the possibility of downed power lines causing local power outages, drivers should use extreme caution when approaching darkened traffic signals. Whether driving on a main thoroughfare or a side street, motorists should treat all non-functioning traffic signals as a four way stop.

If you encounter downed wires, assume them to be energized and potentially lethal. Be careful that such wires haven't electrically charged puddles of water, chain link fences or other conductive sources.

Now is a good time to fully charge your cell phone, check your flashlights, portable radios and spare batteries. Place these items strategically, and make sure others know how to find them. Before you activate a portable generator, make certain you know how to use it legally and safely.

And finally, please take a moment now to secure household items, such as outdoor furniture, that could cause harm or damage if catapulted by a wind gust, and to remove flammable items from around your home.

When outdoors, be careful for toppling trees, wind-blown debris or high profile vehicles buffeted by turbulent wind. If you must get behind the wheel, Spokane Firefighters remind you: "Heads Up, and be careful!"

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

Press Release; IAWF and Spokane FD Co-sponsor Fun Run/Walk Benefit

IAWF and Spokane Fire Department Co-sponsor 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk, October 27th

This week, the International Association of Wildland Fire (IAWF), a non-profit, professional association representing members of the global wildland fire community, and the Spokane Fire Department are teaming up for a 5K and 1 mile Fun Run/Walk around Riverfront Park and the Spokane River.

The festivities begin at 6:30 a.m. on Wednesday, October 27th, and help kick-off the third day of the IAWF’s 3rd Fire Behavior and Fuels Conference: “Beyond Fire Behavior and Fuels: Learning from the Past to Help Guide Us in the Future.”

Conference participants can select from two courses – a 5K course that crosses the Spokane River and loops through Riverfront Park, with views of the 1974 World Expo and Fair site, and a 1 mile course that also circles the park.  Both races will begin at 7:00 a.m., and a map of the routes can be found at http://www.iawfonline.org/spokane2010/funrun.php.

Proceeds from the Fun Run/Walk will benefit the Wildland Firefighter Foundation, a non-profit organization committed to helping families of firefighters killed in the line of duty and assisting injured firefighters and their families through advocacy, immediate and ongoing emotional support, financial assistance, and recognition of fallen and injured wildland firefighters.

For additional information about the IAWF conference and the Fun Run/Walk, please visit http://www.iawfonline.org/spokane2010/.

Chuck Bushey, President

International Association of Wildland Fire

Mobil (406) 697-2454

President(at)iawfonline.org

http://iawfonline.org

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

ISSUING OFFICER: AC Brian Schaeffer
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/22/2010
INCIDENT TYPE: Information
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 44 West Riverside
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: City of Spokane Firefighters will be wearing pink shirts while on duty to support Cancer Awareness and in honor of women fighting cancer. Spokane Firefighters Local 29, in cooperation with Fire Department Administration, will be wearing their newly designed white and pink shirts during the week of October 25-29th. The shirts have the Pink Ribbons incorporated into its design which has become known as a familiar symbol promoting Cancer Awareness.

Last year, the American Cancer Society expected about 1,479,350 new cancers to be diagnosed in the U.S. This year about 562,340 Americans are expected to die of cancer, more than 1,500 people a day. Cancer has been identified as one of the deadliest diseases, as Firefighters we recognize the need to come together to fight it. This means more of us who have not been affected, need to step up and lead the way. Statistics have shown that firefighters are at a higher risk of cancer than the general population due to their exposure to toxic substances throughout the course of their careers. As Professional Firefighters, we will don the color pink to show women that we care enough to wear their color.

As Firefighters we normally wear blue shirts 365 days a year, for five days we will wear the color pink, and give an image of hope and encouragement to those who fear being alone in the battle for their life.
The Fire Department will have a pink shirt kick off on Monday morning (Oct 25) 1130 AM at Station 1 (44 West Riverside). Apparatus and pink uniformed personnel will be on hand to model the new uniforms.

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

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

ISSUING OFFICER: AC Brian Schaeffer
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/22/2010
INCIDENT TYPE: Information
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 44 West Riverside
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: City of Spokane Firefighters will be wearing pink shirts while on duty to support Cancer Awareness and in honor of women fighting cancer. Spokane Firefighters Local 29, in cooperation with Fire Department Administration, will be wearing their newly designed white and pink shirts during the week of October 25-29th. The shirts have the Pink Ribbons incorporated into its design which has become known as a familiar symbol promoting Cancer Awareness.

Last year, the American Cancer Society expected about 1,479,350 new cancers to be diagnosed in the U.S. This year about 562,340 Americans are expected to die of cancer, more than 1,500 people a day. Cancer has been identified as one of the deadliest diseases, as Firefighters we recognize the need to come together to fight it. This means more of us who have not been affected, need to step up and lead the way. Statistics have shown that firefighters are at a higher risk of cancer than the general population due to their exposure to toxic substances throughout the course of their careers. As Professional Firefighters, we will don the color pink to show women that we care enough to wear their color.

As Firefighters we normally wear blue shirts 365 days a year, for five days we will wear the color pink, and give an image of hope and encouragement to those who fear being alone in the battle for their life.
The Fire Department will have a pink shirt kick off at 1130 at Station 1 (44 West Riverside). Apparatus and pink uniformed personnel will be on hand to model the new uniforms.

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

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

ISSUING OFFICER: AC Brian Schaeffer
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/22/2010
INCIDENT TYPE: Information
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 44 West Riverside
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: ALERT Spokane Testing is Scheduled for October 24-26th

Spokane County will soon conduct additional testing of the ALERT Spokane system:

. Sunday, October 24th - Noon-2:00 p.m.
. Monday, October 25th - 5:30-7:30 p.m.
. Tuesday, October 26th - 7:30-9:30 a.m.

If you are in one of the selected test areas you may receive a pre-recorded message on your landline telephone and/or your self-registered method of contact.

ALERT Spokane sends a telephone message to residents and businesses within the county that are impacted by, or in danger of being impacted, by an emergency or disaster. If you have a landline with Qwest, you are automatically in the ALERT Spokane database. However, if you use a cellular phone it must be self-registered with ALERT Spokane. Self-registration is also necessary for Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP) phones, email contacts, etc. as alternative methods of notification.

Additional information about ALERT Spokane, including self-registration, is available at www.alertspokane.org

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

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

ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Clive Jones
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/22/2010
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2914 East Rowan
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP: 99207

NARRATIVE: At 10:00 PM on Thursday, October 21, 2010 the Spokane Fire Department responded twenty firefighter on six trucks and two battalion chiefs to a reported structure fire at 2914 East Rowan. The first crew on scene SE15 reported a one- story structure fully involved. Initial reports indicated there may be victims trapped in the building. Fire companies made an aggressive fire attack along with a search for occupants. The fire was knocked down and a search was completed with no victims found inside the structure. Due to the extensive fire damage fire crews remained on scene throughout the night. There were no injuries to civilians or Fire Fighter.

At this time, the cause is under investigation by the Spokane Fire Departments Special Investigation Unit. The structure is a total loss.

PROBABLE CAUSE: At this time, the cause is under investigation by the Spokane Fire Departments Special Investigation Unit.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The structure is a total loss
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

Press Release; IAWF Hosts 3rd Fire Behavior and Fuels Conference in Spokane

International Association of Wildland Fire Hosts 3^rd Fire Behavior and Fuels Conference® in Spokane, October 25-29

 

More than 400 firefighters, scientists, fire professionals and specialists, and others interested in wildland fire will take part in the International Association of Wildland Fire’s 3^rd Fire Behavior and Fuels Conference®, October 25-29, at the Red Lion Hotel at the Park.  See attached IAWF Press Release for conference event details and contact information.

 

Sincerely,

Chuck Bushey, President

International Association of Wildland Fire

President@iawfonline.org

http://iawfonline.org

 

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

ISSUING OFFICER: Bob Green/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/20/2010
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2709 W Broadway
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: The Spokane City Fire Department dispatched fire fighting crews and their apparatus to 2709 W Broadway at 05:57 hrs in the early morning of Wednesday, October 20th, for a reported house fire. The first arriving fire crews, from the historic Browne's Addition neighborhood, reported a 1.5 story wood/frame dwelling with lazy smoke issuing from the roof and a dormer window. While additional resources were nearing the house, those initial crews were entering the building to determine what was causing the smoke and where the source of the smoke was located. The crews discovered a smoldering type fire located in the ceiling space above the kitchen area. With fully charged hose lines in place inside the dwelling the crews began pulling down the ceilings in not only the kitchen but also in adjacent rooms to get at the slow moving fire that had already done considerable damage to the structural components of the ceiling and the underside of the roof. It took about 20 minutes for the initial crews and some of the later arriving crews to dig out the fire and to get it fully extinguished. There were no reports of any injuries to the fire fighters at the scene or to the owner of the home. The owner was awakened by a loud noise from the kitchen, discovered a ceiling fixture which had fallen to the floor, noticed a bright orange glow coming from the hole left in the ceiling by the fallen fixture, called the Fire Dept. for assistance, and then safely exited her home. Unfortunately there will have to be extensive repairs done to the structure before it can be occupied again, the owner has indicated that she will be staying with friends and/or family until those repairs can be made. Initial indications are that the fire was electrical in nature and an investigator from the City Fire Dept.'s Special Investigation Unit arrived on scene to pin point the exact nature of the possible electrical malfunction. Three pumpers, two ladder trucks, a heavy rescue apparatus, and two Command vehicles delivered 22 firefighters to the scene of this fire.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Unknown electrical type of malfunction in the building's electrical system.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Considerable damage to the structural mebers of the ceiling and the underside of the roof above the kitchen area, smoke damage throughout the structure.
DOLLAR LOSS: 30,000
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: AC Brian Schaeffer
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/19/2010
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2230 West Pacific Avenue
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: On Tuesday, October 19, 2010 at 3:38 PM, 6 Companies of Spokane Firefighters; 3 Engines, 1 Pumper-Ladder, 1 Senior Ladder and 1 Heavy rescue under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Moline and Green responded to a structure fire at 2230 West Pacific Avenue.

Firefighters responding to a garage fire were notified by multiple callers that fire and heavy smoke was emanating from an adjacent apartment complex's garage structure. A nearby SFD unit arrived within four minutes and reported that a two-story, multiple vehicle garage was heavily involved with fire and endangering nearby apartment buildings to the east and west of the fire building. The alarm was upgraded to a "working fire" which automatically adds an additional fire company and other FD resources to the incident.

Due to a nearly simultaneous incident at 3rd/Maple where a vehicle was involved in fire and thought to have two-persons trapped, the normally nearby fire companies were not available causing farther stations to respond to this incident. The simultaneous incidents led to a longer than expected delay and extremely rapid fire growth.

Once an effective firefighting force was on-scene, firefighters swiftly forced entry into areas of the multiple garage building and made a coordinated offensive attack on the fire with aggressive vertical ventilation by ladder companies. After a complete search of the building, it was determined that there were no occupants present on either floor. The fire was completely extinguished within 30-minutes. There were no civilians or firefighters injured during this incident.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause is under investigation by the SFD's Special Investigation Unit.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Four vehicles were destroyed and the eight bay garage sustained varied levels of damage. Structural integrity is still being assessed at the time of this release.
DOLLAR LOSS:
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: Battalion Chief Bill Donahoe
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/18/2010
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 3125 W. 14th Ave.
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99204

NARRATIVE: On Monday October 18th, at 1:55pm the Spokane Fire Department responded 3 engines, 1 senior ladder, 1 pumper ladder, 1 heavy rescue and 2 Battalion Chiefs to a reported structure fire at 3125 West 14th. The first crew on scene reported a split entry home with light smoke showing from the front door. The homeowner met the crew and reported all the occupants had safely evacuated the house. Hose leads were advanced into the home and a thermal imaging camera was utilized to locate the fire in the basement laundry room. The fire was quickly extinguished and crews ventilated the building and searched for smoldering hot spots. The home suffered damage to the laundry room along with heavy to light smoke damage to the rest of the home. Eight occupants will be displaced from the home until the smoke damage can be resolved. No injuries to occupants or firefighters were reported.

PROBABLE CAUSE: PROBABLE CAUSE: Captain Kevin Smathers of the Spokane Fire Department Special Investigation Unit investigated the cause of the fire and determined it started in the clothes dryer, due to malfunctioning temperature sensor.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Basement laundry room and contents along with smoke damage through out the home.
DOLLAR LOSS: 10,000
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: Battalion Chief Steve Sabo
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/16/2010
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1307 E. Walton Ave.
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99207

NARRATIVE: This morning, October 16th, at 8:01 A.M. the Spokane Fire Department was dispatched to a reported house fire at 1307 E. Walton Avenue in the city of Spokane. The first crew on scene reported a one and one-half story house with smoke and flames from the roof vents. The homeowner met the crew and reported all occupants had safely evacuated the house. As additional fire crews arrived, hose leads were stretched into the house and up to the attic. Concurrently, crews cut vent holes in the roof to relieve the heat and smoke, allowing the interior crews to quickly reach and extinguish the fire in the attic. Fire had also extended down through an interior wall containing plastic plumbing pipe, and was burning on the main floor as well as the basement. Using thermal imaging cameras, crews rapidly located and extinguished the fire hidden in the walls, stopping its spread. In all, 3 engines, 3 ladder trucks, 1 heavy rescue truck, and 2 command vehicles, with a total of 23 firefighters operated at this fire. Four adult occupants and several pets will be displaced from the house until extensive repairs can be completed. No injuries to firefighters or the occupants were reported.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Captain Kevin Smathers of the Spokane Fire Department Special Investigation Unit investigated the cause of the fire and determined it started as a result of an unintentionally overloaded electrical circuit.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Fire damage to the house was confined to part of the roof, attic, and an interior wall. Water and overhaul damage also occurred in the process of locating and extinguishing the fire. Roof, structural, electrical and plumbing repairs will need to be made before the house can be reoccupied.
DOLLAR LOSS: 30,000
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: Bruce Moline/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/11/2010
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 4401 S. Regal
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99223

NARRATIVE: On Monday October 11th, 2010 at 8:14 A.M. the Spokane Fire Department responded to a report of a fire at the Wendy's restaurant located at 4401 S. Regal. Engine 11 from their neighborhood fire station location of 32nd and Perry was the first to arrive and found a grease fire in the kitchen. They quickly entered the building while stretching a hose line and also carried a portable extinguisher. They were successful in knocking down the flames and containing the fire to the kitchen area without fire spreading further vertically into the attic space and roof area. As the fire extinguishment efforts were underway, Ladder 1 from their downtown location of Riverside and Browne accessed the roof to make sure the fire was in check and to provide any vertical ventilation if it was needed. Engine 9 from their neighborhood location of 18th and Bernard entered the structure and assisted the fire attack efforts by pulling ceiling to expose any areas where the fire may have extended. All of the restaurant employees that were inside the building managed to escape on their own. The fire was declared controlled and extinguished after approximately 15 minutes. One firefighter received minor smoke inhalation and was transported to Deaconess Hospital and was released later to duty after an evaluation. A total of 18 firefighters fought this blaze. The cause at this time appears to be a deep fat fryer that was in use by restaurant employees. The County Health Department arrived on scene to inspect the damage which consisted of fire damage to the fryer and smoke damage throughout the building.

PROBABLE CAUSE: A deep fat fryer in use by restaurant employees.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The fryer received significant damage from the fire. There was smoke damage throughout the restaurant.
DOLLAR LOSS: 6,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 18
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: Bill Donahoe/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/9/2010
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2105 N. Hemlock
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP: 99205

NARRATIVE: On Saturday, October 9th at 3:20 am, the Spokane Fire Department responded 3 Engines, 2 Senior Ladders, 1 Heavy Rescue and 2 Battalion Chiefs to a reported structure fire at 2105 N. Hemlock. Engine 3 arrived on scene and reported smoke coming from the eves of the 1 story home. After ensuring all the occupants were out of the structure, crews began searching for the fire with a thermal imaging camera. The fire was located in the wall between the home and attached garage. The wall was opened up and the fire was quickly extinguished. There was no extension of fire to the attic or other portions of the home. The electrical power to the residence was shut off as there was damage to the wiring in the wall. There were no injuries to civilians or firefighters

PROBABLE CAUSE: The fire is under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department Special Investigation Unit.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The wall between the home and the attached garage. Smoke damage throughout the home.
DOLLAR LOSS: 5,000.00
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: Bill Donahoe/ Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/8/2010
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 707 W. 5th
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP: 99204

NARRATIVE: On Friday, October 8th at 9:56 pm Ladder 4 and Engine 4 from the Browns Addition Fire Station responded to an alarm system call at the Cooper George Apartment building. Upon arrival the Fire Crews found a smoldering stack of towels on the counter in the laundry room on the 12th floor. Some employees were alerted to the Fire alarm and went to the 12th floor and extinguished the fire with a portable extinguisher. There was minimal fire damage however some smoke damage was sustained on the 12th floor. There were no injuries to civilians or firefighters. The fire is suspicious and is being investigated at this time by the Special Investigation Unit of the Spokane Fire Dept. This is the second fire this week at the Cooper George Apartment Building. The fire Monday the 4th of October was a fire in a garbage can on the 4th floor.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Suspicious and under investigation.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Towels destroyed and slight smoke damage to the laundry room and 12th floor.
DOLLAR LOSS: 100.00
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 7
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

Home Fire Sprinkler Demo- Fire Prevention Week 2010

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

ISSUING OFFICER: Bruce Moline/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/4/2010
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 707 W. 5th on the 10th floor
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99204

NARRATIVE: On Monday night, October 4th at 8:31 P.M. the Spokane Fire Department responded to a report of smoke on the 10th floor of the Cooper George Retirement Community Apartments. Smoke was found on the 10th and 11th floors once fire crews were inside the building. A decision to hook hoses to the buildings standpipe and sprinkler systems was made as additional fire crews were sent to the upper levels to assist with evacuating the tenants and searching for the source of the smoke. A fire crew assigned to search and rescue occupants, found a large garbage can inside a utility room that was on fire. They quickly extinguished the fire with their pump can and began to ventilate the room by removing the smoke with power fans. A room by room search was conducted in order to confirm the status of each occupant that might remain inside their apartment units. Fortunately, no one was injured by the smoke that was present throughout the structure. A total of 30 firefighters responded to this fire with 5 engines, 2 ladders, a pumper ladder, a rescue unit and 2 battalion chiefs. The smoke condition throughout this large complex became the challenge, as it was increasing in volume after the initial arrival of the fire department. With a large occupant load, and the fire reported to be on a upper floor within this high rise building, the fire department had many challenges to face such as deploying personnel and equipment to those higher levels in a safe, efficient and rapid manner. Special High Rise hose was taken in as crews entered the building as was their Thermal Imaging Cameras that use infrared technology to detect hot spots and people that may remain trapped and unable to get out of the burning structure. The fire cause is undetermined at this time and remains under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department Special Investigative Unit.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Undetermined at this time. The fire is under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department Special Investigative Unit.
DAMAGE EXTENT: 50 gallon plastic garbage can was totally destroyed. There was moderate smoke damage on the 4th through 13th floors.
DOLLAR LOSS: 1,000
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: Lisa Jones/Fire Marshal
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/4/2010
INCIDENT TYPE: Information
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 44 W. Riverside Ave.
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: Spokane Fire Department invites the media and the public to view a live fire demonstration that will dramatically compare the survival difference between a sprinklered and non-sprinklered room. This demonstration will begin at 12:30 PM on Wednesday, October 6 on the Gonzaga University campus at 1107 N. Hamilton St. (the northwest corner of Desmet Ave. and Hamilton.)

The demonstration will illustrate the rapid spread of a typical home fire as well as the reduction in fire loss whenever sprinklers are part of the fire safety system. Over 80% of all fire deaths in the U.S. occur where we feel the safest, in our homes.

Representatives from the American Red Cross Inland NW Chapter and Gonzaga University will participate as recognized community partners with Spokane Fire Department in this sprinkler demonstration and commemoration of National Fire Prevention Week 2010.

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

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

ISSUING OFFICER: Jan Doherty/Public Education Officer
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/1/2010
INCIDENT TYPE: Information
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 44 W. Riverside
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: Corrects last sentence of release sent earlier today, October 1.

Spokane Fire Department invites the community to participate in National Fire Prevention Week by making sure that every household is protected with both photoelectric and ionization smoke detectors. The theme of "Smoke Alarms: A Sound You Can Live With" is a sober reminder that 2 out of 3 home fire deaths occur in households without working smoke alarms.

We now know that households should be protected with both IONIZATION and PHOTOELECTRIC smoke detectors. In a fast burning, flaming type of fire the ionization detector will sound the alarm 15 to 55 seconds faster than a photoelectric model. But in a slow burning, smoldering type of fire the photoelectric detector will sound between 10 and 40 minutes faster than the ionization. In fact, the ionization detector that is prone to nuisance alarms from cooking may not sound at all in a smoldering type of fire.

Check the back of your detectors to see if they are marked as ionization or photoelectric. Some households now have combination detectors that will be marked "photo-ion". Also check the back label to see the exact date that you smoke detector was manufactured. Smoke detectors must be replaced every 10 years. Even if the alarm still makes a noise after 10 years, you cannot be sure that the internal mechanism will still be functional in a real life fire situation.

Spokane Fire Department asks every member of the community to check on the condition and type of their smoke detector this coming week between October 3rd and October 9th. If you have additional questions about your detectors, please call 625-7058.

Fire Prevention Week is our annual reminder of The Great Chicago Fire that began on October 8, 1871.
It destroyed 17,500 buildings, left 100,000 people homeless and took more than 250 lives.

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

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

ISSUING OFFICER: Jan Doherty/Public Education Officer
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/1/2010
INCIDENT TYPE: Information
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 44 W. Riverside Ave.
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: Spokane Fire Department invites the community to participate in National Fire Prevention Week by making sure that every household is protected with both photoelectric and ionization smoke detectors. The theme of "Smoke Alarms: A Sound You Can Live With" is a sober reminder that 2 out of 3 home fire deaths occur in households without working smoke alarms.

We now know that households should be protected with both IONIZATION and PHOTOELECTRIC smoke detectors. In a fast burning, flaming type of fire the ionization detector will sound the alarm 15 to 55 seconds faster than a photoelectric model. But in a slow burning, smoldering type of fire the photoelectric detector will sound between 10 and 40 minutes faster than the ionization. In fact, the ionization detector that is prone to nuisance alarms from cooking may not sound at all in a smoldering type of fire.

Check the back of your detectors to see if they are marked as ionization or photoelectric. Some households now have combination detectors that will be marked "photo-ion". Also check the back label to see the exact date that your smoke detector was manufactured. Smoke detectors must be replaced every 10 years. Even if the alarm still makes a noise after 10 years, you cannot be sure that the internal mechanism will still be functional in a real life fire situation.

Spokane Fire Department asks every member of the community to check on the condition and type of their smoke detector this coming week between October 3rd and October 9th. If you have additional questions about your detectors, please call 625-7058.

Fire Prevention Week is our annual reminder of The Great Chicago Fire that began on October 8, 1871. It destroyed over 100,000 buildings and took 250 lives.

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