Monday, August 15, 2016

Attic Fire Strikes Home in Logan Neighborhood

 

 

Attic Fire Strikes Home in Logan Neighborhood

No reported injuries, Cause of fire determined to be electrical

 

Last night just before 9 p.m. the Spokane Fire Department (SFD) responded to the 1600 block of E. Marietta Ave. for a reported residential structure fire.

 

Occupants arrived home to find their house filled with smoke and quickly evacuated before calling 9-1-1 to report the fire.

 

Firefighters from SFD Station #2 were first to arrive, and reported fire present inside the attic of the single story residence. In order to quickly access the fire, crews were forced to remove the sheet rock and insulation that covered the living room ceiling. Once they exposed the burning framing members inside the attic, firefighters quickly extinguished the flames preventing the fire from spreading throughout the home.

 

Thankfully there were no injuries, however the two adults and one child that reside in the home were unable to occupy the residence following the fire. A representative for the owner was on site and able to assist the occupants and the firefighters with securing the home.

 

The fire caused moderate damage to the roof framing, electrical wiring and sheet rock above the front room. It was determined the home’s electrical wiring contributed to the cause of the fire.

 

 

 

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Michele Anderson | Public Safety Communications Manager
Spokane Police Department | Spokane Fire Department

cell 509.742.0063 | office 509.622.5868 | mlanderson@spokanecity.org

 

Friday, August 12, 2016

Working smoke detector alerts sleeping occupant

 

 

Working smoke detector alerts sleeping occupant

No reported injuries, Cause of fire determined to be electrical

 

Early this morning at 4:12 a.m., the Spokane Fire Department along with Spokane County Fire District 8 responded to the 3500 block of E. 48th Court for a reported residential structure fire. Once crews arrived on scene they found the home filled with smoke and fire originating from the bathroom. 

 

Firefighters quickly surrounded the residence to assess the fire and investigate spaces where it may have extended. Crews also exposed the ceiling and were able to locate the fire inside an electrical fan. Firefighters rapidly extinguished the fire, successfully keeping it from spreading and causing further damage.

 

Due to a properly operating smoke detector that woke her up, the resident was able to safely escape her home and call 9-1-1.

 

The fire caused damage to the ceiling fan, wiring, ventilation hose and to a nearby ceiling joist. The cause of the fire was determined to be electrical in origin.

 

The Spokane Fire Department would like to remind every resident of the importance of having working smoke detectors in their home and the importance of maintaining those detectors to ensure they are in good working order. Two out of every three fire deaths in the United States occur in homes without working smoke detectors. For more information about smoke detectors, visit the Spokane Fire Department’s website.

 

 

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Michele Anderson | Public Safety Communications Manager
Spokane Police Department | Spokane Fire Department

cell 509.742.0063 | office 509.622.5868 | mlanderson@spokanecity.org

 

Tuesday, August 9, 2016

#SpokaneStrong Neighborhood Safety Outreach Campaign Launches Today

 

#SpokaneStrong Neighborhood Safety Outreach Campaign Launches Today
Volunteers Are Needed


In an effort to continue crime prevention efforts throughout our community, and to continue the momentum from Spokane’s National Night Out Against Crime, the City of Spokane is partnering with Spokane C.O.P.S. to launch the #SpokaneStrong Neighborhood Safety outreach campaign.

Volunteers can sign-up via Volunteer Spokane to go door-to-door getting to know their neighbors and help distribute information on safety tips (provided by the Spokane Police and Fire Departments), important neighborhood resources and ways to get involved in neighborhood safety efforts. When signing up on Volunteer Spokane, volunteers will be able to watch an introductory video, view instructions and find details on how to get started.

“Partnering with our community through volunteers and great partners like Spokane C.O.P.S who work hand-in-hand with law enforcement help us all reach our common goal - a beautiful, vibrant and safe city to live, work and play in,” says Spokane Police Chief Craig Meidl.

The goal of the #SpokaneStrong Neighborhood Safety Outreach Campaign is to establish a neighborhood safety prevention mindset. Neighborhood safety takes a community effort and helps the efforts of our first responders. The campaign is another important step forward in making Spokane the safest city of our size.

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Michele Anderson | Public Safety Communications Manager
Spokane Police Department | Spokane Fire Department

cell 509.742.0063 | office 509.622.5868 | mlanderson@spokanecity.org

 

Friday, August 5, 2016

Firefighters contain garage fire and limit damage to home

 

 

Firefighters contain garage fire and limit damage to home

No reported injuries, Cause under investigation

 

At 2:37 a.m., the Spokane Fire Department (SFD) responded to the 6000 block of North F Street for a report of an attached garage on fire. Neighbors reported hearing something and looking outside to see the fire. Occupants of the house had exited the structure and were attempting to extinguish the fire with a garden hose upon SFD arrival. 

 

The first arriving company reported heavy fire in the garage with significant smoke throughout the home. The first arriving company made entry into the home to cut off extension into the living area and extinguish the fire.  Later arriving companies made entry into the home to assist with extinguishment of the fire and search for any possible occupants. The home was clear of occupants with no injuries reported. Fire crews advise extinguishment was difficult due to a large amount of flammable materials stored in the garage. 

 

The fire caused significant damage to the garage and minor damage in the living area of the home. The cause of the fire is still under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department Special Investigation Unit.

 

 

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Michele Anderson | Public Safety Communications Manager
Spokane Police Department | Spokane Fire Department

cell 509.742.0063 | office 509.622.5868 | mlanderson@spokanecity.org

 

Monday, August 1, 2016

Media Advisory: Spokane Fire Department Dedicates New Ladder Truck

 

 

Spokane Fire Department Dedicates New Ladder Truck

Event is tomorrow at SFD Fire Station #1 beginning at 9 a.m.

 

Tomorrow, the Spokane Fire Department would like to invite members of the media to join Spokane Mayor David Condon, elected officials, community members and firefighters in dedicating the new ladder truck at Spokane Fire Station #1.   

 

WHEN:                      Tuesday, August 2 at 9 a.m.                  .

 

WHERE:                   Spokane Fire Station #1 (44 W. Riverside Ave.)                  

 

WHAT:                      Dedication of new Ladder 1

 

MISC:                        Visuals will include bagpipes, honor guard and “pushing in” of the new ladder truck. Opportunities for interviews will follow the dedication.

 

 

 

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Michele Anderson | Public Safety Communications Manager
Spokane Police Department | Spokane Fire Department

cell 509.742.0063 | office 509.622.5868 | mlanderson@spokanecity.org

 

Sunday, July 31, 2016

Afternoon Fire Displaces Occupants and Their Dogs

 

 

Afternoon Fire Displaces Occupants and Their Dogs

Cause of Fire Under Investigation

 

This afternoon, the Spokane Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 1000 block of S. Pepper Tree Lane. A large column of smoke could be seen from nearby neighborhoods.

 

Arriving crews discovered a fire that had started in the area of an attached garage and was quickly spreading to the main house. Firefighters worked quickly to confine and extinguish the fire. Crews will continue to check the structure for hotspots throughout evening.

 

All occupants including 2 dogs were able to safely evacuate. Injuries were reported to one fire fighter.

 

The American Red Cross was called to assist the residents (4) and their 2 dogs who were displaced because of the fire. Officials with Avista were also on scene to assist with utilities.

 

The fire caused heavy damage to the garage and the home sustained smoke damage. The Spokane Fire Department Special Investigation Unit is investigating the cause. 

 

 

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Michele Anderson | Public Safety Communications Manager
Spokane Police Department | Spokane Fire Department

cell 509.742.0063 | office 509.622.5868 | mlanderson@spokanecity.org

 

Friday, July 29, 2016

ATF, US Marshals and Spokane Fire Department Collaborate to Arrest Fugitive

 

 

ATF, US Marshals and Spokane Fire Department Collaborate to Arrest Fugitive 

Florida Fugitive Responsible for Throwing Molotov Cocktails at Occupied Residence in Spokane’s East Side 

 

 

On July 21, 2016, at approximately 5:33 a.m., the Spokane Fire Department (SFD) was dispatched to a reported hazardous materials incident at a residence in the 2200 block of E. First Ave. Upon arrival, firefighters notified the SFD’s Special Investigation Unit (SIU) after discovering an incendiary device was used.

 

One of the device had made it into the residence and started a fire in an occupied bedroom. Thanks to the quick actions of a nearby Spokane Police officer, who arrived first on scene, the fire was extinguished. SIU investigators discovered approximately six Molotov cocktails were thrown towards the home which was occupied by two adults and four children.

 

Due to the complexity and potential for federal charges, SFD Investigators contacted the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) for assistance. ATF agents immediately responded, identified many intricacies of this case and were able to connect and identify a Florida fugitive as the primary suspect. The multi-agency collaboration allowed investigators to involve US Marshals and a plan was developed to immediately locate and arrest fugitive Cameron Butler (36 year old male). 

 

Butler was arrested safely by US Marshals in Moses Lake, Washington just hours after the request for assistance was made. Butler currently remains in custody. 

 

Any additional information concerning this case should be directed to the ATF.

 

 

 

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Michele Anderson | Public Safety Communications Manager
Spokane Police Department | Spokane Fire Department

cell 509.742.0063 | office 509.622.5868 | mlanderson@spokanecity.org

 

Thursday, July 28, 2016

FIRE MARSHAL ISSUES RESTRICTIONS ON OUTDOOR RECREATIONAL FIRES FOR THE CITY OF SPOKANE

 

 

FIRE MARSHAL ISSUES RESTRICTIONS ON OUTDOOR RECREATIONAL FIRES FOR THE CITY OF SPOKANE

 

 

Due to the adverse weather conditions, specified outdoor recreational fires (in ground campfires, fire bowls and fire pits) are prohibited in the City of Spokane effective tomorrow, July 29, by order of the Spokane City Fire Marshal. The restriction will continue until further notice; such restrictions are subject to change depending on conditions. 

 

Residents may still use backyard barbecues, portable outdoor fireplaces (provided the appliance has a spark arrester and a chimney) or other patio/deck warmers. Remember, approved fuel must be used and weather conditions must support safe recreational fires. Approved fuels include seasoned (clean/dry) firewood, briquettes, propane or natural gas.

 

Other requirements for AUTHORIZED recreational outdoor fires include:

 

  • Fires must be attended by a responsible adult (knowledgeable in the use of the fire extinguishing equipment) at all times.
  • Approved fire extinguishing equipment must be on hand and ready for use.
    • Equipment can include a garden hose, dirt, sand, bucket, shovel, or a minimum 4A rated portable fire extinguisher.
  • Adequate clearance from combustibles must exist (15 feet for authorized portable appliances with spark arresters and chimneys).
    • For one and two-family dwellings, follow the device manufacturer’s instructions for clearance. Be safe and use good judgment.
  • Fires must not present a health hazard or nuisance to others.
  • Safe wind conditions (no more than 7 mph) must be present.
  • Ash and charcoal remnants must be safely disposed of in noncombustible waste containers.

 

Unsafe or otherwise restricted fires will be required to be extinguished. Failure to comply with the burning restrictions could have serious consequences. A person who fails to take immediate action to extinguish or otherwise discontinue unauthorized burning when ordered to do so is guilty of a misdemeanor. That person can face a fine of up to $1,000 and/or up to 90 days in jail.

 

Please see the attached for additional information.

 

 

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Michele Anderson | Public Safety Communications Manager
Spokane Police Department | Spokane Fire Department

cell 509.742.0063 | office 509.622.5868 | mlanderson@spokanecity.org

 

Prolific Arsonist Arrested by Spokane Fire and Police Departments Yesterday

 

Prolific Arsonist Arrested by Spokane Fire and Police Departments Yesterday

Responsible for Arson Fire at Redemption Church and Molly’s Restaurant Downtown

 

 

Spokane Fire Investigators had been tracking minor fire activity since July 17th in the area of 2nd/Division

 

Yesterday at 9 a.m., Spokane Fire Department Investigators were following up on a recent dumpster fire at 224 South Lincoln that occurred over the weekend. As a result of the investigation, surveillance video was captured that identified a suspect in the fire.

 

Investigators then contacted Spokane Police Department (SPD) Detective Elise Robertson at the Downtown Precinct who contributed incredibly towards efforts in identifying the suspect that eventually led to the arrest.  An SPD Neighborhood Resource Officer located the suspect at 168 S. Division St. and SPD Officers safely took the suspect into custody.

 

The suspect’s name is Donald Hayward (56 year old male). Mr. Hayward has an extensive criminal arson history from Washington State and Florida. He is currently booked in Spokane County Jail and has his first appearance at 11 a.m. this morning.

 

 

 

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Thursday, July 21, 2016

Attached Media Release

 

YESTERDAY’S APARTMENT FIRE REMAINS UNDER INVESTIGATION

 

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YESTERDAY'S APARTMENT FIRE REMAINS UNDER INVESTIGATION

NO INJURIES REPORTED

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Yesterday morning just before 7 a.m., the Spokane Fire Department responded to an apartment fire located in the 1100 block of N. Walnut St. The first arriving crew from the neighborhood fire station reported extensive fire in the basement of the structure with flames extending to the vinyl siding and roof.

 

Firefighters quickly knocked down the fire and prevented it from causing further damage. After full extinguishment, fire crews remained on scene throughout the morning completing overhaul tasks which included searching for hotspots and removing debris. The American Red Cross responded to the incident to assist residents. Officials with Avista were also on scene to control the electrical circuits.

 

All occupants inside the apartments were able to safely evacuate and there were no reported injuries to civilians or firefighters.

 

The fire caused major damage to the flooring, wiring, windows, exterior siding and a portion of the roof. At this time, the cause of the fire appears to be electrical in origin and remains under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department Special Investigation Unit.

 

 

 

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Michele Anderson | Public Safety Communications Manager
Spokane Police Department | Spokane Fire Department

cell 509.742.0063 | office 509.622.5868 | mlanderson@spokanecity.org

 

Thursday, June 30, 2016

SPOKANE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTRICATES TRAPPED PATIENT

 

 

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SPOKANE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTRICATES TRAPPED PATIENT

MULTIPLE PATIENTS TRANSPORTED TO LOCAL HOSPITALS

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The Spokane Fire Department extricates a trapped patient after a head-on collision. Multiple patients were transported to local hospitals. 

 

Last night at 10:07 p.m., multiple units from the Spokane Fire Department (SFD) along with Spokane County Fire District 10 responded to a head-on collision at Spotted Road and U.S. Highway 2 in Airway Heights.

 

First arriving fire crews reported an SUV had collided with a piece of fire apparatus from Washington State Department of Natural Resources. Firefighters immediately began the complex extrication process of rescuing the severely injured patient from inside the SUV and providing aid to multiple other patients. Within one hour, the patient was safely removed from the vehicle and all patients were transported to local hospitals by American Medical Response (AMR).

 

As the summer months begin and more motorists are on the road, area residents and visitors are reminded to use caution when driving. Drivers must yield the right-of-way to emergency vehicles, pull to the right of the roadway for lights and sirens and allow for extra room when passing crews working at the scene of emergency incidents. 

 

 

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Michele Anderson | Public Safety Communications Manager
Spokane Police Department | Spokane Fire Department

cell 509.742.0063 | office 509.622.5868 | mlanderson@spokanecity.org

 

SPOKANE FIRE DEPARTMENT STRESSES IMPORTANCE OF FOLLOWING FIREWORKS BAN

 

 

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SPOKANE FIRE DEPARTMENT STRESSES IMPORTANCE OF FOLLOWING FIREWORKS BAN

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With extreme fire conditions and the Fourth of July holiday just around the corner, the Spokane Fire Department wants to remind residents and visitors the selling and use of all amateur fireworks is illegal in the cities of Spokane, Spokane Valley, Cheney, Millwood and Liberty Lake as well as throughout the unincorporated areas of Spokane County. 

 

Illegal possession or use of fireworks can result in fines up to $1,000 for each violation in addition to fines and court costs. If an individual starts a fire, they are also liable for restitution of damaged property and for the recovery of Fire Department response costs.

 

All fireworks are prohibited including, but not limited to non-detonating military devices such as large flares, certain propellants, specialty fireworks and larger devices used in public displays, firecrackers, torpedoes, skyrockets, roman candles, sparklers, bottle rockets and similar materials that contain any explosive or combustible compound.

 

This year marks the 24th year in which all consumer fireworks are illegal. Based on the number of fireworks-caused fires between 1983 and 1992, the fireworks ban has prevented an estimated 2200 fires. In the ten years prior to the fireworks ordinance in 1993, Spokane firefighters responded to an average of 104 fireworks-caused fires just in the City of Spokane during the 9-day period between June 28 and July 6.  During the past 24 years of the ban, the average number of fireworks-caused fires has dramatically dropped to five. Prior to the ban, there were so many fireworks-caused fires around July 4 that some emergency medical calls to 9-1-1 had to be stacked until first responders could be dispatched.

 

In addition to the number of fires and injuries caused by amateur fireworks each year throughout the United States, there is a very negative impact from fireworks noise on veterans suffering from PTSD, on neighbors, and on pets. 

 

Violations of the fireworks ban can be reported to Crime Check at 456-2233.

 

The Spokane Fire Department would like to wish the community a happy Independence Day and encourage everyone to celebrate the holiday safely without using individual fireworks. Remember, everyone is invited to the community celebration on the evening of July 4th at the Riverfront Park with a fireworks display provided by licensed pyrotechnicians.

 

 

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Michele Anderson | Public Safety Communications Manager
Spokane Police Department | Spokane Fire Department

cell 509.742.0063 | office 509.622.5868 | mlanderson@spokanecity.org

 

Saturday, June 25, 2016

FIREFIGHTERS RESCUE OCCUPANTS AFTER VEHICLE COLLISION

 

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FIREFIGHTERS RESCUE OCCUPANTS AFTER VEHICLE COLLISION

TWO OCCUPANTS TRANSPORTED TO LOCAL HOSPITALS WITH NOT LIFE THREATENING INJURIES

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After an extensive extrication that last just under 90 minutes, fire crews rescue two occupants from a vehicle collision. Both occupants suffered not life threatening injuries and were transported to local hospitals. 

 

Last night just before midnight, multiple units from the Spokane Fire Department (SFD) were dispatched to a vehicle collision at the intersection of N. Division St. and W. Cleveland Ave. 

Upon arrival, SFD personnel discovered two patients trapped inside a single vehicle.

Due to the precarious and hazardous position of the vehicle in addition to the patient entanglement, additional SFD crews and equipment were dispatched. The extensive extrication lasted just under 90 minutes. Thanks to the diligent work by public safety crews, both of the occupants were transported to local hospitals by American Medical Response (AMR) with not life threatening injuries.

 

The Spokane Police Department is investigating the cause of the collision.

 

 

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Michele Anderson | Public Safety Communications Manager
Spokane Police Department | Spokane Fire Department

cell 509.742.0063 | office 509.622.5868 | mlanderson@spokanecity.org

 

Wednesday, June 22, 2016

THE SPOKANE POLICE AND FIRE DEPARTMENTS WANT TO REMIND HOOPFEST FANS TO HAVE FUN AND ALSO STAY SAFE

THE SPOKANE POLICE AND FIRE DEPARTMENTS WANT TO REMIND HOOPFEST FANS TO HAVE FUN AND ALSO STAY SAFE

 

To ensure the largest 3-on-3 basketball tournament in the world remains safe and fun, City of Spokane public safety officials are working with area law enforcement agencies and partnering with the Spokane Hoopfest Association. Attendees are encouraged to follow a few safety tips.

 

Spokane police officers will be working with SPD volunteers, Explorer Scouts, Co-Op volunteers and Reserve Officers to provide security and help ensure safety for all Hoopfest fans. In addition, the Spokane Fire Department’s PedMed Program, a special operations program that deploys fire department paramedics in areas that are routinely inaccessible due to large crowds or terrain will be working throughout the event. Additional behind the scenes measures will be implemented as well.

 

“We have an excellent community partnership with the Spokane Hoopfest Association and both of our organizations want attendees to enjoy what our beautiful city has to offer and to have fun at this dynamic downtown event while remaining safe and healthy,” advises Law Enforcement Director Jim McDevitt. 

 

To help ensure the safety of people attending as well as those that are in the area, public safety officials are asking for the community’s help by following a few safety tips:

 

  • Choose an alternative route to avoid congestion if you do not need to be downtown.
  • Take public transportation if you can.
  • Be aware of your surroundings.
  • Immediately report suspicious activity to law enforcement officials.
  • Never leave children unattended.
  • Lock ALL vehicle doors and secure windows. If possible use a vehicle anti-theft device.
  • Do not leave any valuables in vehicles.
  • Drivers should slow down and be aware of extra pedestrian activity.
  • Pedestrians should exercise extra caution and watch for traffic.
  • Do not leave purses or bags unattended. 
  • Animals are prohibited during special events, so please leave them at home (service animals are permitted).
  • Remember open containers are not allowed.

 

Beginning Tuesday, June 21, yellow and/or red bags will be placed on many meters in the downtown area. Vehicles that are already parked in those spots must be moved by 6 p.m. or they could be towed. As a reminder, please do not park at meters that are bagged. Once the meters have been bagged for 12 hours, vehicles will be towed. These areas will be used for Hoopfest equipment, emergency vehicles, event equipment vehicles, and STA buses.

 

“With warmer temperatures expected this weekend, we also want to remind attendees and participants of the importance of preventing heat related illnesses,” advises Assistant Fire Chief Brian Schaeffer. “Heat stress increases the risk for illnesses such as heat stroke, heat exhaustion or heat cramps.”

 

To help prevent heat related illnesses, here are a few things to keep in mind:

 

  • Avoid heavy exertion, extreme heat, sun exposure, and high humidity when possible.
  • If you are active, monitor your physical condition and that of your friends or teammates for signs or symptoms of heat illnesses.
  • Drink plenty of water – don't wait until you're thirsty to drink more fluids.
  • Wear light-colored, loose-fitting, breathable clothing such as cotton.

 

Throughout the year, the safety of our community is of the utmost importance to your Spokane Police and Fire Departments. We are dedicated to making sure our community is safe and secure each day of the year and during all of our special events.

 

A complete list of street obstructions can be found here.

 

For more information about Spokane Hoopfest visit http://www.spokanehoopfest.net/Pages/default.aspx.

 

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Michele Anderson | Public Safety Communications Manager
Spokane Police Department | Spokane Fire Department

cell 509.742.0063 | office 509.622.5868 | mlanderson@spokanecity.org

 

Spokane Fire Department

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