Stamford Tragedy

Following a tragic fire in Stamford, Connecticut on Christmas morning that took five lives, we are asking homeowners to develop two simple habits that can prevent such senseless deaths.

 1. Fireplace ashes must always be handled with care. After cooling thoroughly in the fireplace, ashes should be placed directly into a metal can and soaked completely with water. No other items should be placed in the can. The metal can must be immediately covered with its own tight-fitting non-combustible lid. The closed container should then be stored at a safe outdoor location away from any structure or combustible items.

2. A functional smoke alarm inside each sleeping room and in the hallway adjacent to such rooms. A functional smoke alarm should also be installed at the top of any stairwell leading to sleeping areas, and on every level of the home. To assure the alarms are working, they should be tested at least once each month. 

Nearly 4,000 Americans die each year from fire - often in preventable blazes like Stamford. Prevent you and your loved ones from becoming a statistic by learning more at:

usfa.fema.gov

See a news report from the Stamford video at...  http://www.clipsyndicate.com/video/playlist/8178/3137399 

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North Battalion House Fire

Incident #:  2011052173
Date of Incident:  12/27/2011
Issuing Officer:  AC Schaeffer

Narrative:
On December 27, 2011 at 09:03 AM 6 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 1 Senior Ladder, 1 Heavy Rescue, 4 Engines under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Jones and Cornelius, responded to a Structure Fire at 2214 East Heroy Avenue in Northeast Spokane. Spokane Firefighters arrived within 4-minutes to find smoke showing from the roof areas and front door of the single family residence. The first arriving Chief declared a working fire and added an additional senior ladder to the incident while firefighters made quick work of the fire which had spread into the basement, first floor and attic of the residence. Arriving engine companies stretched pre-connected hoselines into multiple areas of the structure to confine the fire's progress while ladder companies went to the roof to provide vertical ventilation. The well coordinated effort of firefighters extinguished the fire within 1 hour and were able to protect as much personal property as possible with aggressive salvage work. There were no injuries to civilians or firefighters during this incident. The last few weeks have been extremely busy with structure fires impacting several areas of the City's neighborhoods. I mention this fact only to highlight safety and underscore the importance of exercising extreme caution anytime you use a portable heating device or are around or in use of an open flame regardless of the source. This holds true not only through the Holiday Season, but at all times. Please allow yourselves to spend your Holiday Season with family and friends...SAFELY!

Cause:
The natural is accidental and cause is combustibles too close to a portable heating device

Damage:
All contents received varying levels of damage.

# Firefighters Responding: 22

Dollar Loss: $35500

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Christmas Morning North Battalion House Fire

Incident #:  2011051911
Date of Incident:  12/25/2011
Issuing Officer:  AC Schaeffer

Narrative:
On Christmas morning, December 25, 2011 at 5:33AM, 6 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 1 Senior Ladder, 1 Heavy Rescue, 4 Engines under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Haworth and Brown, responded to a Structure Fire at 823 East Crown Avenue in Northeast Spokane. Spokane Firefighters arrived quickly to find smoke showing from the attic and first floor; as well as flames from the roof of a one-story duplex. The first arriving Chief declared a working fire and added an additional senior ladder and AMR Supervisor to the scene. Finding a quickly moving fire in one unit of the duplex, firefighters commenced a quick search for occupants while laddering and ventilating the ice-covered roof. A single adult male occupant of the fire unit was located outside the structure (awaken by a neighbor). An adult male and his son residing in the adjacent unit were quickly located and brought outside by firefighters. Arriving engine companies stretched pre-connected hoselines into multiple areas of the structure to confine the fire and halt its progress. The well coordinated effort of firefighters confined flames to one unit's attic area within just 1 hour. There were no injuries reported from either residents or firefighters.

Cause:
The cause of the fire was determined to be accidental and caused by a faulty fire place.

Damage:
Though loss from the fire was limited to predominately one unit; both units were rendered temporarily untenable due to the impact of the fire's impingement on utilities. One family was referred to the American Red Cross for interim placement assistance. Both families were incredibly fortunate as there were no working smoke detectors in the building.

# Firefighters Responding: 26

End Of Release
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South Battalion Duplex Fire

Incident #:  2011051778#
Date of Incident:  12/24/2011
Issuing Officer:  Battalion Chief Bill Donahoe

Narrative:
On Saturday December 23rd 2011 at 03:54, four engine companies, two senior ladders, one heavy rescue under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Donahoe and Jones responded to a Structure Fire at 2303 East Mission. Firefighters arrived to find smoke emitting for the roof eves of a single story duplex. The first engine company reported heavy fire in the basement of the affected unit. Companies made a complete search of both the 2303 and 2305 addressed units of the duplex. The 50 year old male occupant from the affected unit suffered smoke inhalation but made it out of the building prior to the Fire Departments arrival. He is being treated at Holy Family Hospital. Three adults, one child and a cat were assisted out of the adjacent unit by Firefighters making the primary search. The fire was under control within 30 minutes but crews remained on scene for approximately four hours to make sure the fire was completely out. It should be noted that both Duplex units did not have a working smoke detector on either the basement or the first floor and the Spokane Fire Dept installed the required smoke detectors prior to leaving. The 4 occupants in the adjacent unit next to the fire were able to move back into their home with no fire or smoke damage. The male occupant in the fire affected unit will be residing with friends until major structural repair,Chimney repair, smoke damage and electrical issues can be rectified.

Cause:
The Special Investigation Unit has determined that the fire was caused by a defective chimney with a wood stove insert. The Spokane Fire Department would like to remind citizens to have their chimney inspected and cleaned each year prior to use. These occupants were very fortunate to escape this fire especially without working smoke detectors.

Damage:
There is structural damage from the fire in the basement and first floor, along with smoke damage throughout the affected unit. The Chimney is in need of replacement or major repair. The adjacent duplex unit was protected from any fire or smoke damage

# Firefighters Responding: 24

Dollar Loss: $30,000.00

End Of Release
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Candle Safety

The month of December is full of tradition and religious observance. It is also a time when many households use candles - sometimes with tragic results.

With the Jewish celebration of Chanukah calling for the use of lit candles, we are reminding citizens to follow the same safety precautions for general candle use, also apply to the multi-branched candelabrum known as the Menorah.

To assure a safe celebration, the SFD suggests:

• Place the Menorah in a safe, secure, and well watched area.
• Never place a lit Menorah near curtains, shades, tablecloths, plants, books, or under counters.
• Be mindful of drafts and air currents from heating/ventilation systems.
• Do not put the Menorah on an unsteady table or surface.
• Avoid leaving the Menorah unattended when burning.
• Do not have open flame if medical oxygen is being used in the home.
• Make sure any oil used for the Menorah is stored in a stable holder, well removed from the flame or heat source.
• Adult supervision is essential when children light the Menorah.
• Assure that infants, toddlers and pets are unable to reach or access the Menorah.
• Store matches and lighters up high and out of children's sight and reach, preferably in a locked cabinet.

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Attic Fire South Battalion

Incident #:  2011051582
Date of Incident:  12/22/2011
Issuing Officer:  Battalion Chief Dan Brown

Narrative:
On the afternoon of 12-22-11 at 4:04 pm the Spokane Fire department responded to a reported structure fire at 2007 East 6th. Several calls were received at City Fire Dispatch reporting the fire. Assistant Chief Schaeffer was first on scene at 4:09 followed by several fire apparatus and command personnel. It was reported that smoke was showing from the roof and attic space of a one story wood frame house. Crews were assigned to search and locate the fire. Fire was located in the attic and attack leads were put into place along with roof ventilation. Extensive overhaul was done inside to aid in extinguishment of the fire. The main body of the fire was knocked down in about 15 minute's complete overhaul and extinguishment was completed in about 2 hours. Damage was confined to the roof , attic space and ceilings. One Firefighter was injured and released from duty with a shoulder sprain, no other injuries were reported. 21 firefighters 3 command officers reported to this incident. The cause of this fire is under investigation.

Cause:
Under investigation

Damage:
Damage to the roof attic space and ceillings, with some water damage.

# Firefighters Responding: 21

Dollar Loss: $35000.00

End Of Release
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Kitchen Fire in North Side Home

Incident #:  2011051496
Date of Incident:  12/21/2011
Issuing Officer:  Bob Green/Battalion Chief

Narrative:
The Spokane City Fire Dept. dispatched fire fighting crews and their apparatus Wednesday night, Dec. 21st, to 1010 E. Decatur at 23:12 hrs. to a reported structure fire. The first arriving fire company reported smoke issuing from the front door of a 1.5 story wood/frame dwelling. As other fire apparatus began arriving on scene, assignments were being made by the Incident Commander. Those assignments included advancing a charged hose line into the structure, horizontal and possible vertical ventilation of the building, searching for any victims on all the floors, securing a water supply, a back-up hose line to protect the firefighters who would be making initial entry into the building, and the formation of a Rapid Intervention Team who would be standing by to rescue any firefighter who might become injured, lost, or trapped inside the building. The combined efforts of the fire fighting crews at this fire kept the flames confined to the 1st floor kitchen area. Four Engines, one Ladder Truck, one Heavy Rescue Rig, and two Command Vehicles delivered 21 firefighters to the scene of this fire. The fire damage was limited to the 1st floor kitchen area of the structure, although there was smoke damage to most other areas of the first floor. The occupants of the home were able to safely exit their home at the time of the fire, however they will not be able to stay in the house because of the significant interior damage and because the utilities, gas and electricity, have been disconnected. There were no reports of any injuries to firefighters at the scene or to the residents of the building. A member of the Spokane City Fire Dept's Special Investigation Unit was at the fire and he began his investigation as soon as conditions inside the structure allowed him to safely enter.

Cause:
Under Investigation.

Damage:
Kitchen area of the first floor, smoke damage throughout the structure, ventilation holes cut into the roof.

# Firefighters Responding: 21

Dollar Loss: $20,000

End Of Release
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North Side Bedroom Fire

Incident #:  2011050341
Date of Incident:  12/13/2011
Issuing Officer:  Bob Green/Battalion Chief

Narrative:
The Spokane City Fire Dept. dispatched fire fighting crews and their apparatus on Tuesday afternoon, Dec. 13th, to 729 E. Broad at 17:15 hrs. for a reported structure fire. The first arriving fire company, from Sta. #15 located in the Hillyard neighborhood, reported smoke and fire issuing from two front-facing windows on the second floor of a 2 story wood/frame dwelling. As other fire apparatus began arriving on scene, assignments were being made by the initial Incident Commander, Assistant Chief Brian Schaeffer who had arrived on the scene shortly after Engine 15, those assignments would include advancing a charged hose line into the structure, horizontal ventilation of the building, searching for any victims on all the floors, securing a water supply, a back-up hose line to protect the firefighters who would be making initial entry into the building, and the formation of a Rapid Intervention Team who would be standing by to rescue any firefighter who might become injured, lost, or trapped inside the building. The combined efforts of the fire fighting crews at this fire kept the flames confined to the 2nd floor bedrooms. Four Engines, two Ladder Trucks, one Heavy Rescue Rig, and three Command Vehicles delivered 25 firefighters to the scene of this blaze. The fire damage was limited to the 2nd floor, although there was smoke damage to areas of the first floor. The occupants of the home were able to safely exit their home at the time of the fire. The family had multiple pets in the structure and some of them were accounted for but some had not been located by the time firefighters left the scene. There were no reports of any injuries to firefighters at the scene or to the residents of the building. A member of the Spokane City Fire Dept's Special Investigation Unit was at the fire and he began his investigation as soon as conditions inside the structure allowed him to safely enter. His investigation will continue tomorrow during the day-light hours.

Cause:
Currently under investigation by the Special Investigation Unit of the Spokane City Fire Dept.

Damage:
Fire damage to the front bedrooms located on the second floor, heavy smoke damage to other areas of the second floor and some additional smoke damage to the first floor.

# Firefighters Responding: 25

Dollar Loss: $20,000

End Of Release
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Six Easy Habits to Help Protect you From the Flu

Every year, an estimated 5-20% of the United States populace suffers from seasonal influenza (flu). While many consider the flu minor, in reality, each year it's estimated that 200,000 or more are hospitalized for flu complications and 23,600 people die from flu related causes.

Many people are classified as high risk for the flu by the CDC. These groups include the elderly, young children, caregivers - including firefighters, and people with chronic illness. Vaccination is valuable for everyone, but it is especially important for those who are considered high risk. In addition, it is recommended that any person in close contact with someone in a high-risk group get vaccinated.

Flu can also burden the health care system, including Spokane Fire Department Paramedics, who already care for over 20,000 people yearly suffering from a multitude of illness and injuries.

That's why the SFD encourages you to practice six simple habits that can minimize your risk:

1. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.

2. Stay home when you are sick. If possible, stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick. You will help prevent others from catching your illness.

3. Cover your mouth and nose. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.

4. Clean your hands. Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs.

5. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.

6. Practice other good health habits. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.

Getting a vaccination and practicing these Six Simple Habits can be a lifesaver for you and those you love. To learn more, visit: http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/stopgerms.htm

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35 East Garland

Incident #:  2011049888
Date of Incident:  12/10/2011
Issuing Officer:  Joel Fielder/Battalion Chief

Narrative:
At 11:45 this morning, December 10, 2011 the Spokane Fire Department responded to 35 East Garland on a reported structure fire. The first crew on-scene reported fire and smoke showing from the eaves of a 1-story, wood framed residence. The occupant of the home reported the fire started on the outside of the structure and quickly entered the attic. Fire fighters aggressively attacked the fire from the interior of the structure while additional fire crews completed search and rescue, roof ventilation and salvage and overhaul. The fire was brought under control within 30 minutes and fire crews will be on scene for several hours to complete the overhaul process. There were no reported injuries to civilians or firefighters. 8 fire companies with 25 firefighters and 2 Battalion Chiefs responded to this fire.

Cause:
The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Spokane Fire Departments Special Investigation Unit.

Damage:
Fire damage was confined to the exterior wall on the east side of the home, the main floor and attic

# Firefighters Responding: 25

Dollar Loss: $25000

End Of Release
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14th Ave. Fire

Incident #:  2011049490
Date of Incident:  12/7/2011
Issuing Officer:  Craig Cornelius

Narrative:
On Wednesday December 07, 2011 at 12:26 PM, 6 Companies of Spokane Firefighters; 1 Senior Ladder, 4 Engines and 1 Heavy Rescue Truck under the direction of Deputy Chief Hanna, responded to a reported structure fire at 3125 W. 14th Ave. Firefighters from Station 4 arrived within 6 minutes and reported dark smoke showing from the second floor and eve areas of a 2 story home. Fire crews searched and verified that the residents were out of the structure and quickly commenced fire attack operations on the second floor. The fire was quickly brought under control and confined to a mechanical room and a portion of the ceiling above. However, the dark heavy smoke damaged the entire upper floor. The nine member family living in the damaged home is being assisted by the local Red Cross. There were no civilian casualties at this fire. One Firefighter sustained a minor neck injury during the fire's extinguishment.

Cause:
The cause of this fire is still under investigation, but appears to be electrical in nature

Damage:
The upper floor is damaged from fire and smoke. Lower areas in the home received water damage from a broken water pipe.

# Firefighters Responding: 20

Dollar Loss: $45000

End Of Release
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Christmas Tree Fire Video: It just takes a minute.

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Severed Natural Gas Supply Line in Downtown Spokane

Incident #:  2011049270
Date of Incident:  12/5/2011
Issuing Officer:  Bob Green/Battalion Chief

Narrative:
The Spokane City Fire Dept. responded fire fighting apparatus and crews to 1115 W. Riverside at 2:09 in the afternoon of Monday, Dec. 5th for a reported severed natural gas supply line in the alley-way directly behind Our Lady of Lourdes Cathedral in Downtown Spokane. The Fire Dept.'s Haz-Mat Team was dispatched as well due to the reported location of the break and the possible size of the damaged gas line. Apparently a back-hoe operator digging in the alley accidently severed the gas line which released natural gas under high pressure into the surrounding atmosphere. Avista was notified of the leak and they dispatched two of their Natural Gas Teams to the incident. First arriving fire crews on the scene immediately began an investigation to determine the exact location of the leak and the size of the line. As other crews began to arrive they began to isolate the area involved by using barricade tape, cones, fire apparatus, and Police cruisers. Concern over any occupied buildings in the area prompted assignment of still other crews to monitor the air quality in those buildings for LEL (lower explosive limits) in all exposed buildings, evacuating some as gas levels began to rise. Fire crews continued to protect the area while waiting for Avista crews to arrive. Once Avista crews arrived on scene they met with Fire personnel and together they formulated a plan to stop the high-pitched howl of the escaping gas. Avista crews entered the area while being protected by charged fire hose leads and were able to successfully crimp off the end of the severed gas line stopping the flow of the gas within about 10 minutes. There were no reports of any injuries to firefighters, Avista crews, or civilians. The Fire Dept. responded 5 Engines, 2 Ladder Trucks, 1 Heavy Rescue Apparatus, 1 Haz-Mat Truck, and 2 Command vehicles to this incident delivering 27 firefighters to the scene.

Cause:
Back-hoe operating in the alley severed the buried natural gas line.

Damage:
Severed natural gas 1 1/4" supply line.

# Firefighters Responding: 27

Dollar Loss: $500

End Of Release
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East Wellesley structure Fire

Incident #:  2011048861
Date of Incident:  12/2/2011
Issuing Officer:  Joel Fielder/ Battalion Chief

Narrative:
Today, December 2, 2011 the Spokane Fire Department responded at approximately 11:50 AM to 1507 East Wellesley on a reported structure fire. The first crew on-scene reported light smoke showing at the back of the 1-story, wood-framed single family home. After further investigation the fire crew discovered a fire in the attic of the home. They aggressively attacked the fire from the interior while additional fire crews completed search and rescue, salvage and overhaul. The fire was brought under control within 15 minutes and there were no reported injuries to any civilians or firefighters. Ten fire companies with 26 firefighters responded to this fire and were on scene for approximately 1.5 hours.

Cause:
The cause of the fire was determined to be an overloaded electrical circuit located in the attic that overheated and ignited near by combustibles.

Damage:
Fire damage was confined to the attic with minor smoke damage through out the rest of the structure.

# Firefighters Responding: 26

Dollar Loss: $5000

End Of Release
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