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South Battalion Fire Involving a Fatality

Incident #:  2012041831
Date of Incident:  9/26/2012
Issuing Officer:  AC Schaeffer

Narrative:
On Wednesday, September 26, 2012 at 1:23 PM, eight companies of Spokane Firefighters, seven engines and one senior ladder under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Green and Fielder responded to a civilian fatality fire at 328 West 8th Avenue on Spokane's lower South Hill. Firefighters arrived quickly to discover light smoke showing from the west side of the four story apartment building. Additionally, as they were approaching the scene, they observed a civilian lying on the ground with bystanders performing CPR on the victim. The Chief arrived nearly simultaneously and ordered arriving resources (FD Paramedics) to treat the critical patient while sending other companies to supply the building's fire standpipe system and attack the fire. Companies had to use the external stairwells to evacuate occupants and used the internal stairs to deploy firefighters with their equipment. The first two fire companies reaching the fourth floor (Engine 11, Ladder 1) encountered smoke in both the stairwell and hallways; but despite the conditions, they were able to successfully locate the fire in unit 410. They successfully extinguished the fire in the apartment and limited their overhaul work to the immediate area in order to facilitate an investigation. Additional companies were used to evacuate occupants from the fourth and third floors as well as control the building's internal systems. The patient was resuscitated on scene and transported in critical condition to the closest trauma center for definitive treatment. Companies remained on scene assisting the SFD investigator and SPD Major Crimes for approximately an hour. Except for the aforementioned patient, there were no additional injuries to either civilians or to firefighters.

Cause:
Spokane Police Major Crimes and SFD's SIU are jointly investigating this incident. Preliminary information received thus far indicates that the victim (unknown adult female) was burned from a fire in the apartment and jumped from the west-facing window in unit 410. No other information is available and the next likely release will be from Police Major Crimes.

Damage:
Physical damage is minor and will not affect the remaining units on the fourth floor. Occupants will be allowed to return after the SPD investigation is completed.

# Firefighters Responding: 24

Dollar Loss: $1000

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North Battalion Attempted Arson

Incident #:  2012041684
Date of Incident:  9/25/2012
Issuing Officer:  AC Schaeffer

Narrative:
The Spokane Fire Department's SIU is actively investigating a fire intentionally set today at 2:12pm at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints located at 732 West Indiana Avenue. The fire, which primarily consisted of signage, was intentionally set on the exterior of a wall and occurred minutes prior to its discovery by passing motorists. SFD Investigators are urging residents to be alert for suspicious activity, and to minimize the threat of arson by abating dry vegetation, fuel, trash and debris. Property owners are also encouraged to use outdoor lighting, lock vehicles and place rubbish within covered trash cans in well-secured areas to curtail the possibility of arson. The investigation into this purposely set fires is being led by the SFD's SIU, working closely with officers from the Spokane Police Department. Anyone witnessing active fire, fire-setting or imminent danger to life and property is encouraged to call 9-1-1 immediately. Those with information about this arson or other suspicious fires, should call the Arson Tip Line - 344-FIRE (3473)

Cause:
N/A

Damage:
N/A

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Four Alarm Fire

Incident #:  2012041697
Date of Incident:  9/25/2012
Issuing Officer:  AC Schaeffer

Narrative:
On Tuesday 25, 2012 at 4:03 PM, a single engine company was dispatched to a report of smoke in the area of Deaconess Hospital. As the company arrived in the area, they were met with heavy smoke showing from a three-story 160' x 50' apartment building at 725 South Lincoln. The alarm was immediately upgraded to include a reinforced assignment of 7 additional companies of Spokane Firefighters-3 Engines, 1 Heavy Rescue and 3-Senior Ladders under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Cornelius and Donahoe. As the additional companies were arriving they were assigned to rescue and evacuate the occupants in the three-story, multiple unit apartment building. A second alarm was requested at 4:12 pm and subsequent third and fourth alarms followed shortly after. Due to the area's narrow roads and parked cars, SPD was forced to tow vehicles in order to allow access by fire apparatus so they could fight the fire. All three of the City's ladder companies were utilized to search for victims and provide vertical ventilation on the roof, just above the fire. Engine companies simultaneously attacked the rapidly progressing fire from the building's interior on all three floors in an attempt to prevent its growth and limit damage. It took nearly 75 Firefighters and staff over two hours to control the incident. Firefighters were able to contain the damage to a third of the building and prevent it from spreading into adjacent single family homes. There were no injuries to either civilians or to firefighters as a result of the incident.

Cause:
The cause is under investigation and the American Red Cross assisted any displaced occupants. More information regarding this incident will be available tomorrow.

Damage:
Firefighters are remaining on scene throughout the night, protecting the homeowners belongings from additional damage during the salvage and overhaul operations. A formal damage assessment will be completed tomorrow.

# Firefighters Responding: 75

Other Fire Districts Responding: Fire District 1, Fire District 9

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125 E. Providence

Incident #:  2012041577
Date of Incident:  9/24/2012
Issuing Officer:  Joel Fielder/Battalion Chief

Narrative:
Yesterday, September 24, 2012 the Spokane Fire Department responded at approximately 8:06 PM to 125 East Providence Avenue on a reported structure fire. Fire dispatch received several calls from neighbors in the area reporting fire showing from the front of the home. The first crew on-scene reported fire at the front of a 1-story, wood framed house. The fire was extending from a window at the south (front) and the south west corner of the home with possible fire extension into the attic. Fire fighters advanced a pre-connected hose line through the front door and quickly extinguished the fire. Additional fire crews completed search and rescue, vertical ventilation and salvage and overhaul. The fire was brought under control within 10 minutes and there were no reported injuries firefighters. Ten fire companies with 27 firefighters responded to this fire and were on scene for approximately 2 hours. The home was reported to be vacant however neighbors reported transients had been living at the home.

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

Damage:
Fire damage was confined to the front living room with heat and smoke damage throughout the rest of the structure

# Firefighters Responding: 27

Dollar Loss: $45000

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2804 E. Diamond

Incident #:  2012041152
Date of Incident:  9/22/2012
Issuing Officer:  Joel Fielder/Battalion Chief

Narrative:
Yesterday at 10:26 AM, September 22, 2012 the Spokane Fire Department responded to 2804 E. Diamond on a reported structure fire. The first crew on-scene reported fire showing from the southeast corner of the 2-story, wood-framed apartment building. Within a matter of minutes the fire had spread from the first floor to the second floor and then into the attic via an exterior gable vent located on the south side of the structure. Fire fighters aggressively attacked the fire from the interior of the structure while additional fire crews completed vertical ventilation, search and rescue and fire overhaul. The fire was brought under control within 30 minutes and fire crews were on scene throughout the evening to complete the salvage and overhaul process. Four Engine companies, three Ladders companies, a heavy rescue truck and 2 Battalion Chiefs were on scene during the initial operations of this incident. Red Cross arrived on scene and are assisting the occupants that were displaced. The Spokane Police Department was also on scene and provided traffic control and scene security during the operational period of this incident.

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

Damage:
The main floor kitchen and the attic sustained significant fire damage with smoke and water damage to the rest of the structure.

# Firefighters Responding: 28

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Update on Yesterday's Brush Fires

Incident #: 
Date of Incident:  9/21/2012
Issuing Officer:  AC Schaeffer

Narrative:
SFD's 'D' shift was extremely busy yesterday responding to one-hundred incidents. Of those calls, three were brush fires in the urban interface. The first occurred at 5:07 pm to 4000 East Euclid Avenue (Beacon Hill) and the small spot fire was quickly handled by Engine 2, Engine/Brush 8, Engine/Brush 14 and Chief Hanna. The second incident occurred at 6:25 pm to the area of Pettet Drive and West Point Road. A brush fire was discovered at the lower area of the extreme slope below West Point Road. The fire was traveling uphill and involved a 50' x 50' area in timber. This incident was upgraded due to the extreme terrain and access challenges and included: Engine 2, Engine/Brush 15, Engine 3, Engine/Brush 16, Battalion Chiefs 21 and 20 and Chief Schaeffer. Companies were on this incident for approximately 2 ½ hours and the fire is fully contained and mopped up. Concurrently, at 6:33 pm another brush fire was reported near East North Foothills/North Standard and included Ladder 2, Engine 7 and Engine/Brush 14. The fire there was in light brush and quickly contained within 30-minutes.

Cause:
Under investigation

Damage:
All of the nearby structures were protected by firefighters.

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Celebrate the Jewish Holiday Safely

Incident #: 
Date of Incident:  9/18/2012
Issuing Officer:  AC Schaeffer

Narrative:
The Spokane Fire Department is encouraging everyone's heightened safety awareness during the Jewish High Holiday celebrations in September and October: Rosh Hashanah - Begins at sundown on September 17 and ends at sundown on September 18, 2012. Yom Kippur - Begins at sundown on September 25 and ends at sundown on September 26, 2012. The Feast of Sukkot - Begins at sundown on September 30 and ends at sundown on October 8, 2012 Shemini Atzeret-Simchat Torah - Begins October 7 and ends at sundown on October 9, 2012. It is the hope of the SFD to maintain an elevated sense of awareness regarding community activities and to maintain our sensitivities at a level where only the highest level of service will continually be provided. We are asking help from the public too... Jewish holidays including the Sabbath are for many a time of family gatherings, celebrated with songs, special foods, and customs. Many holy days and observances, as well as the Sabbath, are a time for traditional cooking and candle rituals. However, without safety precautions, these customary religious observances may increase the risk for fires and fire-related injuries. Please celebrate your heritage safely and exercise due diligence with candles and cooking; and remember to make sure smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are functioning properly.

Cause:
N/A

Damage:
N/A

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Summit Brush Fire

Incident #:  2012040349
Date of Incident:  9/17/2012
Issuing Officer:  BC Jones

Narrative:
On Monday September 17, 2012 at 4:06 the Spokane Fire Department responded with three brush truck and two engines to a reported brush fire located at Summit Boulevard and Ohio. Firefighters arrived to find a fast moving fire running North of Summit Boulevard in light to medium brush. With the resources of the Spokane Fire Department this fire was brought under control within two hours of the reported fire.

Cause:
Under investigation

Damage:
Undetermined at this time

# Firefighters Responding: 14

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Information on the Apache Pass Fire from the IMT

NEWS FROM THE FIRELINE:  Multiple aircraft worked to help fight the fire yesterday that grew significantly due to strong and gusty winds.  Due to the great work of crews assigned to the incident as well as the fine work by local fire crews who were called back to help due to the lack of resources available for assignment, no homes were lost.  Today as additional crews and equipment continue to arrive on the incident the main focus will be to build fire line and extinguish active fire.

The Apache Pass Fire started around 3:30 P.M Sunday. Monday at 6:00 A.M., Spokane County Incident Management Team under Incident Commander Randy Johnson, took over the incident from the local resources. 

CONTAINMENT: 15%

SIZE: 18000 acres

LOCATION:  Approximately 17 miles SW of Creston, WA

VEGETATION TYPE AND TERRAIN:  Sage and Heavy Grass in moderate terrain.

WEATHER:  Mostly sunny, with temperatures in the high 60’s, 18% humidity with northwest winds 2 to 5 MPH in the morning becoming west 5 to 8 MPH in the afternoon.

PERSONNEL: 103

RESOURCES: Spokane County Incident Management Team, 2 Strike Teams consisting of 5 engines and one water tender, 3 dozers and 3 hand crews along with multiple single resources.  Aircraft will be working over the fire today.

AGENCIES & COOPERATORS INVOLVED:   Lincoln County Fire Districts 3, 6 and 7, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Bureau of Land Management, Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife, Washington State Department of Natural Resources and Washington State Patrol Fire Mobilization.

OTHER INFORMATION: Approximately 12 residents were given a level 2 evacuation notice.  The evacuation notice remains in place at this time.  No primary residences have been lost but a few outbuildings have been damaged.  Hatten Road is the only road closure in place at this time.  One local firefighter sustained a minor injury.

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Protect yourself from wildfire smoke.

Date of Incident:  9/11/2012     
Issuing Officer:  AC Schaeffer
     
Narrative:
When wildfires burn in the Northwest, they produce smoke that often reach your Spokane. Smoke from wildfires is a mixture of gases and fine particles from burning trees and other plant materials. Smoke can hurt your eyes, irritate your respiratory system, and worsen chronic heart and lung diseases. Who is at greatest risk from wildfire smoke?     

-People who have heart or lung diseases, like congestive heart failure, angina, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (including emphysema), or asthma, are at higher risk from wildfire smoke. In general, people with these conditions are at higher risk of having health problems than healthy people.     

-Older adults are more likely to be affected by smoke. This may be due to their increased risk of heart and lung diseases.     

-Children are more likely to be affected by health threats from smoke. Children's airways are still developing and they breathe more air per pound of body weight than adults. In addition, children often spend more time outdoors engaged in activity and play. Take steps to decrease your risk from wildfire smoke.     

-Check local air quality reports. Listen and watch for news or health warnings about smoke. Visit Spokane County Clean Agency's website often (www.spokanecleanair.org) to monitor conditions. In addition, pay attention to public health messages about taking safety measures from the Spokane Fire Department.     

-Keep indoor air as clean as possible if you are advised to stay indoors. Keep windows and doors closed. Run an air conditioner if you have one, but keep the fresh-air intake closed and the filter clean to prevent outdoor smoke from getting inside. If you do not have an air conditioner and it is too warm to stay inside with the windows closed, seek a shelter away from the affected area.     

-Avoid activities that increase indoor pollution. Burning candles, fireplaces, or gas stoves can increase indoor pollution. Vacuuming stirs up particles already inside your home, contributing to indoor pollution. Smoking also puts even more pollution into the air. .Follow the advice of your doctor or other healthcare provider about medicines and about your respiratory management plan if you have asthma or another lung disease. Consider leaving the area if you are having trouble breathing. Call for further advice if your symptoms worsen.

-Do not rely on dust masks for protection. Paper "comfort" or "dust" masks commonly found at hardware stores are designed to trap large particles, such as sawdust. These masks will NOT protect your lungs from the small particles found in wildfire smoke.


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Remembrance

Incident #: 
Date of Incident:  9/11/2012
Issuing Officer:  AC Schaeffer

Narrative:
Over the years, the anniversary of the attack on our Country on September 11, 2001 has become a remarkable and growing tribute made up of people throughout the community who are remembering the victims and heroes of 9/11. The Spokane Fire Department would like all of the people we serve to remember and to rekindle the spirit of unity we all shared right after 9/11 through good deeds that help others in need. Helping others in the community is one way that you will help ensure that something positive arises from the 9/11 tragedy. Whether you help a neighbor with a lawn project, volunteer time at a school, pay for someone's lunch that may need a hand, whatever the simple act of assistance may be-take today as an opportunity to contribute and ensure that something positive comes from remembrance. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone today. Your Spokane Fire Department

Cause:
N/A

Damage:
N/A

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National Preparedness Month 2012

National Preparedness Month (NPM) was created after 9/11 to encourage Americans to take steps to prepare for emergencies in their homes, schools, organizations, businesses, and communities. While September is the month for recognizing national preparedness, the goal is to engage the public to make preparedness a part of their daily lives.

This September marks the ninth annual NPM. This year’s theme is “Pledge to Prepare -Awareness to Action.” We’re asking the public -- individuals, business, and organizations -- to take specific action steps by doing at least one of the following:

1. Learn about emergency hazards and their appropriate responses

2. Make a communications plan

3. Build an emergency kit

4. Get involved in preparedness in their community.

The National Preparedness Pledge to Prepare

• The National Preparedness Pledge to Prepare is open to all public and private sector organizations. You can pledge by visiting Ready.gov and clicking on the “Pledge to Prepare” banner. There is no cost or obligation in doing so.

• During NPM, we encourage those that have taken the pledge to share preparedness information with their families, neighbors, customers, employees, and communities.

For more information, follow the Spokane Department of Emergency Management on twitter https://twitter.com/GEGEmergencyMgt or visit www.SpokanePrepares.org

Our Local NPM 2012 Public Service Announcement link:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m9y-EaZfixk&feature=em-share_video_user

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Arson Suspect Arrested

Incident #:  201038118
Date of Incident:  9/4/2012
Issuing Officer:  AC Schaeffer

Narrative:
The Spokane Fire Department's SIU along with SPD officers arrested 33 year old Daniele L. Williamson last night. Ms. Williamson was charged with a variety of crimes including Arson 1st Degree, Arson 2nd Degree, Attempted Robbery 1st Degree, Armed Burglary 1st Degree and Theft 3rd Degree (while obtaining or exerting control). Ms. Williamson started a taxi cab on fire (that she had been a passenger in), entered the Health and Sciences Building on the Riverpoint campus (310 N. Riverpoint Blvd) and started two small fires inside the building. Earlier in the incident she indicated she had a bomb in a backpack (none was found). Ms. Williamson also activated two pull stations inside the Health and Sciences Building. She is currently incarcerated in the Spokane County Jail awaiting first appearance.

Cause:
N/A

Damage:
N/A

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Natural Gas line broken during contruction work on 29th Ave.

Incident #:  2012037589
Date of Incident:  9/1/2012
Issuing Officer:  C Cornelius / Battalion Chief

Narrative:
On Friday, August 31, at 12:18 PM, the Spokane Fire Department dispatched 1 Senior Ladder, 4 Engines and 2 Chiefs to a reported break in a natural gas line at the intersection of 29th Ave. and Latawah St. Private contractors performing roadwork on 29th Ave. pierced a large gas pipe with a backhoe. Engine 11, from Station 11 located at 32nd and Perry was the first to arrive on scene. Engine 11's Captain reported that the break was in a large supply line (roughly 6 inches) and that they were in the process of starting area evacuations and removal of ignition sources. Two addition fire companies and a 3rd Chief were brought in to assist with the evacuations and safety issues. Initial priorities of the Fire Department were to warn and evacuate civilians from the immediate area. Latawah was evacuated from 30th north to 28th. 29th Ave. was evacuated both east and west of the intersection. Two day care facilities, a church school, numerous homes, several nearby businesses and part of an apartment building were evacuated. Spokane Transit Authority provided a bus to assist in providing a climate controlled environment for those evacuated. Specialists from Avista promptly responded to the scene. Avista and Fire personnel worked together making several entries into the hazard area to shut down two different supply valves. A third emergency shut-off valve was brought in and installed to completely stop the flow of gas. Throughout the incident, detection equipment from the Spokane Fire Department's Hazardous Material Team was used to monitor the surrounding area for dangerous levels of gas. Crews were on the scene for over three hours repairing the line and providing safety for those in the area. The incident was safely mitigated with no injuries.

Cause:
Heavy construction equipment breaking gas line.

Damage:
Damage to gas supply line. No damage to surrounding area.

# Firefighters Responding: 25

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