Tuesday, December 30, 2008

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Bobby Williams, Fire Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 12/30/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 3857 E. Olive, Empire Cold Storage
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 0

NARRATIVE: Release issued as of 2:00 pm

A fire broke out in the center portion of the Empire Cold Storage facility at approximately 10:09 am today. Initial arriving companies reported a working fire. Assistant Chief Brian Schaeffer and Deputy Chief Dave Leavenworth were in the area and arrived on the scene shortly. Chief Schaeffer assumed command and requested a 2nd Alarm. The fire eventually went to a 3rd alarm utilizing 14 of the city fire department's 17 units along with a ladder from the Valley Fire Department.

A short time after being on scene, signs of structural collapse were observed and forced firefighter evacuation of the building and the incident going to a "Defensive" mode.

The facility stored approximately 100 tons of frozen food products. As a part of the cooling process the facility uses the chemical Anhydrous Ammonia. This is an extremely dangerous chemical that can react violently to fire creating a number of hazardous situations. Due to this chemical being on site and potentially exposed to the spreading fire, an evacuation was initiated in an area of 500 feet in all directions of the structure.

There were two separate Anhydrous Ammonia storage tanks at this location. One contained 2000 lbs of the chemical and the other 2500 lbs. Fire crews concentrated on protecting these storage tanks from fire as well as fire from spreading to other parts of the building.

The main building was generally divided into 3 areas separated by fire walls. The fire originated and thus far has been contained to the center divided area.

Water streams from aerial ladders and ground deluge guns were used to put water on the fire. There were some initial challenges for Firefighters to find and dig out fire hydrants. The city water department was extremely helpful in finding and digging out additional hydrants for possible use.

As the fire department gained control of the fire, the mandatory evacuation order was lifted at approximately 1:15 pm.

During the height of the incident, several city fire stations were filled with mutual aid units from surrounding fire departments and districts including the Valley Fire Department and Fire Districts 8, 9 and 10.

It is anticipated that the Spokane Fire Department will have units on the scene for several hours.


PROBABLE CAUSE: Preliminarily it has been determined that the fire was started by a cutting torch removing a portion of an awning that had collapsed from snow load over the weekend. Apparently, the awning collapse caused a gas leak during the weekend. The gas was immediately shut down by the utility company and had no contribution to the fire.

The building owner hired a contractor to repair the damage created by the awning collapse. In order to complete the repair, it was necessary to cut away a part of the awning from the main structure on the north side of the building in the center of the building. It was during the cutting operation that the fire began.

Fire Investigators will conduct additional work on the scene after the fire is totally extinguished and it is safe to do so.

DAMAGE EXTENT: The center of the building received extreme fire damage. At this time the extent of damage to the frozen food products stored at the facility is not know.
DOLLAR LOSS: 0
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 60
MUTUAL AID: Fire District 1, Fire District 10, Fire District 8, Fire District 9


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

Monday, December 29, 2008

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Bruce Moline
DATE OF INCIDENT: 12/28/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 608 N. Maple
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: On December 28th, 2008 at 12:02 P.M. the Spokane Fire Department responded 5 engine companies, 1 ladder company, 1 pumper ladder company, 1 rescue unit and 2 battalion chiefs to a structure fire located at 608 N. Maple. This originally was reported as a possible transformer on fire as it was near a power substation and the caller was viewing this from a distance away. Engine 3, the first to arrive, could tell as they approached the area that this was more than just a transformer burning as there was a significant amount of dark colored smoke in the air. They immediately asked for a full alarm and upon arrival, discovered a wooden storage shed that was burning right next to a commercial warehouse and office facility. It was then reported that a person may still be inside the storage shed. A rapid primary search was begun along with an interior fire attack. The fire was impinging on a large metal garage door next to the storage shed and ladder crews began to force entry to the interior of the warehouse to prevent any further extension of fire. The fire was successfully kept out of the warehouse. Firefighters were able to knock down the fire and completed their searches in 15 minutes. The cause of the fire is unknown at this time however the Spokane Fire Department Special Investigation Unit is currently investigating its source. There were no injuries to firefighters or civilians at this fire. The storage shed and its contents received heavy damage. The warehouse garage door sustained heat damage. A total of 26 firefighters responded on this blaze.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department Special Investigation Unit.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The wooden storage shed received heavy fire damage. The warehouse and office facility garage door sustained moderate fire damage.
DOLLAR LOSS: 10,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 26
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Thursday, December 18, 2008

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Brian Schaeffer, Assistant Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 12/17/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Information
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1117 West 26th Avenue
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99203

NARRATIVE: On Wednesday December 17 at 1233, 6 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 3 Engines, 1 Heavy Rescue, 2-Senior Ladders under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Craig Cornelius and Mike Inman responded to a reported structure fire at 1117 West 26th Avenue. The first fire company arrived within 4-minutes and found a one and one half story, single family wood frame home with light smoke showing from attached garage.

Ladder companies searched and ventilated the home's basement. Engine companies were able to locate the fire in a daylight basement and extinguished it using pre-connected hose-lines. Through the process of attacking the fire, the Fire Department member was injured when he made contact with an energized electrical line. His injury was minor and he was transported to the hospital as a precaution. After being evaluated at the hospital, the member was released and returned back to work.

The fire was contained to the area of origin and extinguished in 45 minutes. No civilians were injured in the fire.


PROBABLE CAUSE: Under investigation by the SFD's SIU and listed as undetermined.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Damage limited to the area of origin; smoke damage throughout the basement.
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

Wednesday, December 17, 2008

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Bruce Moline/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 12/17/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1434 W. Indiana
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99205

NARRATIVE: On December 17th, 2008 at 4:50 A.M. the Spokane Fire Department sent 6 companies of firefighters to a fire in a dwelling located at 1434 W. Indiana. Fire crews were confronted with a fire that was burning on the outside of the home and traveling vertically towards the second level next to the chimney. The fire was rapidly extinguished with hose lines on the outside while crews on the inside were quickly checking for any occupants that remained. Both tenants were able to escape on their own, safely. After this was confirmed, fire crews then began to check for hotspots that may have extended to other unseen portions of the house. The fire was declared out after 45 minutes. The occupants will be able to stay in the home as the damage was minimal. The fire is currently under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department and it appears at this time that it was caused by embers from the fireplace that communicated through the brick and mortar to the outside wall where it burned 2 X 4 studs, insulation and both wood and vinyl siding. There were no injuries to either firefighters or occupants. The Spokane Fire Department would like to offer the following winter fire life saving tips:

.Install a smoke detector on every level of your home. Test smoke alarm batteries every month and change them at least once a year. Consider installing a 10 year lithium battery-powered smoke alarm, which is sealed so it cannot be tampered with or opened.

.Make sure wood stoves are properly installed, away from combustible surfaces, have the proper floor support and adequate ventilation. Never use flammable liquids (such as gasoline) to start or accelerate fire.

.Make sure your space heaters have an emergency shut off in case they tip over. Kerosene heaters are not permitted in many areas. ONLY use the fuel recommended by the manufacturer. Never refill a space heater while it is operating or still hot. Refuel outside, away from the house.

.Have your furnace and chimney professionally inspected annually and cleaned if necessary. Chimney tar build-up is a common cause of chimney fires.

.Never thaw frozen pipes with a blow torch or other open flame. Use hot water or a device, like a hand-held dryer, evaluated by a nationally recognized laboratory such as Underwriters Laboratories. (UL).

.Dispose of hot ashes in metal containers placed away from the house.

.Never use the range or oven to heat your home.

.If there is a fire hydrant near your home, keep it clear of snow for easy access.


PROBABLE CAUSE: Possibly caused by embers that escaped the fireplace through holes or cracks in the brick and mortar and lodged in the wall on the exterior side of the house. The fire is currently being investigated by the Special Investigation Unit of the Spokane Fire Department.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The exterior vinyl and wood siding as well as the insulation and stud wall all received damage from the fire.
DOLLAR LOSS: 4,000
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

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Fire Press Release - Three Fer

ISSUING OFFICER: Brian Schaeffer
DATE OF INCIDENT: 12/15/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 515 South Sheridan
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: On Monday, December 15, 2008 at 3:29 PM, 8 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 4 Engines, 3 Senior Ladders and 1 Heavy Rescue under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Green and Hanna responded to a reported residence fire at 515 South Sheridan. Residents reported a fire present in the floor area of their home and called 911. They exited the residence at the direction of the Fire Dispatcher and were all accounted for on arrival of the first company.

The resident's neighborhood fire company (Engine 7) was on scene within 5-minutes and reported a fire below the flooring of the home and believed that it may have spread to other areas of the home. Engine companies and Ladder companies working in concert located the fire, extinguished it and ventilated the home. The roof was laddered with Ladder 4's aerial ladder for rooftop access and they eventually overhauled and salvaged the remaining contents of the home.

The well-coordinated efforts of the Spokane Firefighters resulted in the fire being extinguished within 30 minutes and damage being limited to specific areas of the home. There were no injuries to either civilians or firefighters and the residents are temporarily staying with family and being assisted by Spokane Fire Department's CARES Team and the Red Cross.


PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause is under investigation by SFD's SIU. Preliminary information suggests a portable heating device may have contributed to the cause of the fire. A formal release regarding the cause may be disseminated tomorrow.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Structural members and areas in close proximity to the fire are damaged. Minor smoke damage exists throughout the home.
DOLLAR LOSS: 15000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 31
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

ISSUING OFFICER: Bob Green/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 12/15/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2503 W Queen
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99205

NARRATIVE: The Spokane City Fire Department dispatched fire fighting crews and their apparatus to 2503 W. Queen at 6:47 in the evening on Monday, December15th, for a reported basement fire. The first arriving fire officer reported heavy smoke issuing from the rear of a single story wood/frame dwelling, he reported that the family of four had safely exited the building and were outside, he further radioed to other arriving crews that he and his crew were going to attempt to enter the smoke filled building in an effort to locate the seat of the fire. Command of this fire was then transferred to the next arriving Fire Officer at the scene who made additional assignments to the other fire crews as they began arriving on scene. In a coordinated and systematic manner, the fire crews all went about completing their assigned tasks and as a result of their combined efforts the fire was located in the basement, it was confined, and then it was extinguished. The outside temperature created additional problems for the firefighters as they struggled in the single digit cold to fight this fire. Fortunately there were no reported injuries to any of the firefighters or to the family who was forced to leave their home. The family left the house with only the articles of clothing they happened to be wearing, however they were helped out by their neighbors who brought them warm clothing to ward off the bitter nighttime cold. The fire was contained to a bedroom in the basement which suffered very heavy fire damage, the rest of the basement sustained severe heat damage from the stubborn fire and the first floor of the house had considerable smoke damage throughout. The on-duty investigator from the Spokane City Fire Department's Special Investigation Unit was on the scene shortly after the fire was extinguished and his investigation concluded with the cause of the fire being attributed to the incomplete extinguishment of incense that had been burning in one of the basement bedrooms.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Incomplete extinguishment of burning incense in one of the basement bedrooms.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Heavy fire damage to the room of origin, severe heat damage to the rest of the basement, and considerable smoke damage to the main floor of the residence.
DOLLAR LOSS: 40,000
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

ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Steve Sabo
DATE OF INCIDENT: 12/16/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1031 E. 34th Ave.
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99223

NARRATIVE: At 0415 this morning, Tuesday, December 16, 2008, the Spokane Fire Department responded to a reported house fire at 1031 E. 34th Ave. The first fire company arrived on-scene five minutes after the dispatch, and reported moderate smoke from the attic and roof vents. The occupants, one adult and two children, along with their dog, were out of the house. The adult reported being awakened by the smell of smoke, and got the rest of his family out. They did have an operating smoke detector in the home, but it did not activate for unknown reasons.

Fire crews pulled ceilings in the kitchen and rear entry areas to get to the fire, which was burning in the ceiling framing members and attic insulation. The fire was quickly knocked down. Fire damage was confined to ceiling framing and electrical wiring, but damage due to accessing the fire and overhauling the burned area was extensive. The family will be unable to occupy the house until repairs can be made.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The fire was investigated by Captain Smathers of the SFD Special Investigation Unit. He determined the cause to be electrical wiring in the attic. Further investigation will be done to determine if the wiring malfunctioned or was overloaded.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Damage to the house is estimated to be $40,000.
DOLLAR LOSS: 40000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 21
MUTUAL AID: None Given

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

END OF RELEASE

Monday, December 08, 2008

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Brian Schaeffer
DATE OF INCIDENT: 12/6/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 5231 W Navaho
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99208

NARRATIVE: On Thursday, December 6, 2008 at 3:22 PM, 7 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 4 Engines, 1 Senior Ladder, 1 Pumper-Ladder and 1 Heavy Rescue under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Fielder and Kirsch responded to a reported residence fire at 5231 W Navaho. Residents reported a fire present in the interior wall of their home to SFD Dispatchers on 911. They stated that their smoke detectors were activating and they had discharged a fire extinguisher towards the fire, however it did not appear to affect the rapidly growing fire. The resident's neighborhood fire company (Engine 17) was on scene within 5-minutes and reported a fire in the interior of the home with high suspicion that the fire had spread to the attic. Additional engine companies laid a supply line from a nearby hydrant and assisted Engine 17 in gaining access to the fire and extinguishing it. Ladder companies provided ventilation, overhaul and salvage in coordination with the engine's efforts.

The well-coordinated efforts of the Spokane Firefighters resulted in the fire being extinguished within 45 minutes and damage being limited to specific areas of the home. There were no injuries to either civilians or firefighters and the residents are temporarily staying with family.


PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause is under investigation by SFD's Special Investigation Unit. Investigators are on scene currently.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Damage varies in different areas of the residence. There appears to be moderate structural damage with variying levels of smoke damage throughout the home. The family of seven (two adults and five children ranging in ages from 6 years old to 16 years old.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 26
MUTUAL AID: None Given

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

END OF RELEAS

Monday, November 24, 2008

Spokesman-Review thanks those of us who aren't "bad apples."

I think I have read The Spokesman-Review column The Slice perhaps once before I read the one on Sunday. A picture of a firefighter in full PPE caught my eye. I had to scan most of the article to get to the part about firefighters. Paul Turner, the author, had written about what he was thankful for. Here’s his thankfulness for us:

“Past or present employees of the Spokane Fire Department who are not an embarrassment: We all know it's just a few bad apples.”

Accordingly, I was moved to write this. I still haven’t sent it in as a letter to the editor. The SR doesn’t really have much space devoted to such things anymore. I doubt they would publish it:


Dear Editor,

I was heartened, as a firefighter, that Paul Turner, in November 23rd’s Slice, gave thanks for “Past or present employees of the Spokane Fire Department who are not an embarrassment: We all know it's just a few bad apples.”

Thank you, Paul.

We know that we are always under the Spokesman-Review’s worthy scrutiny, and as such, an incident that would not normally be newsworthy becomes newsworthy when a firefighter (past or present) is implicated.

That’s just the way it is.

I, in turn, would like to give thanks for all past, present and future Spokesman-Review employees who are not an embarrassment had their colleagues’ fall from grace been reported in the Spokesman-Review. We all know its just a few bad apples that we will never hear about.

I would like to extend a genuine “thank you” to the citizens of Spokane for the support of your fire department. Know that we are there for you – no matter what your emergency - 24/7. Have a safe and relaxing holiday season.

John Griffith
Local 29
Etc.

I would guess that any organization our size has about the same number of employees "in trouble." It just isn't newsworthy to report their screw-ups.

So while there are "bad apples" in every organization, so too the S-R, I would imagine, and you won't hear about most of them.

Maybe Mr. Turner was genuine in his thanks. It just seems odd to hear it from the S-R. What do you think?

Thursday, November 20, 2008

If you live in the city, take this survey to tell the city council what your priorities are.

Fire Press Release

SSUING OFFICER: Ken Kirsch/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 11/19/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 3122 E Gordon
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: On 11/19/08 at approximately 0650 hrs units of the City of Spokane Fire Department responded to 3122 E Gordon upon report of a structure fire. The first arriving apparatus on scene found smoke coming from the south-east portion of an approximately 60'X90', one story, wood-frame, commercial structure. The commercial structure was divided into approximately 8 separate units, each being used for a different purpose. The unit in which the fire occurred was used mostly for wood-working and wood floor installation. Fire crews forced open doors on both the north and south sides of the building and then advanced pre-connected hose-lines into those areas to extinguish the fire. While the hose-lines were being positioned, other crews accessed the roof for ventilation purposes and still other crews searched the building for any possible life hazards that might still in the structure. Search and Rescue crews continued the search as news that a civilian may be living in the building was reported. The search for the civilian was hampered by the conditions encountered by firefighters. The search area was accessed by breaching finished walls of two adjacent units. The search area was full of boxes and other ordinary items stacked from floor to near ceiling levels. The boxes numbered in the hundreds or possibly thousands, with various small living areas being found among the boxes. Fire-fighters found pathways under the boxes which led to and from the living areas. The civilian was found in an upper area of the boxes, obscured from view. Fire Department Para-medics attempted to revive the male victim but were unsuccessful.

A total of 28 firefighters on 11 apparatus fought this blaze. The fire was brought under control within approximately 30 minutes of fire-fighters arrival on scene. Firefighters remained on scene for approximately another 2 hrs before turning the scene over to fire investigators. No injuries were reported to firefighters.


PROBABLE CAUSE: The main body of fire was confined to a small room in the wood-floor installation unit. The fire appears to have originated in this room, in an area near the wood-stove. Less fire damage was evident in other areas of this unit. Smoke damage was evident throughout the wood floor installation unit, and to some extent, to almost all the units of the commercial structure. Investigation of the incident is being conducted by the Spokane Fire Department.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Total dollar loss is approximately $30,000.
DOLLAR LOSS: 30,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 28
MUTUAL AID: None Given

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

END OF RELEASE

Saturday, November 15, 2008

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Bob Green/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 11/13/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1622 E Wellesley
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99207

NARRATIVE: The Spokane City Fire Department dispatched two fire crews and their apparatus to 1622 E Wellesley, Rogers High School, at 8:12 in the evening on Thursday, November 13th, for a routine fire alarm system call. The first arriving fire crew was met at the school by school officials who happened to be there. The fire alarm system was sounding and the firefighters and the officials went to the alarm panel to determine where in the building the problem may be located. The enunciator information provided at the alarm panel led the firefighters to a part of the new building where it was obvious that no problem existed. Since the alarm system was not allowing itself to be re-set the fire crews continued to investigate the building for the cause of the alarm. Moving their investigation outside the main building, one of the firefighters picked up the familiar smell of burning wood in the area and followed that odor to one of the "portable" buildings just to the east of the main school building. By now the smoke was showing itself and beginning to spread, it was at this time that the Incident Commander requested a full alarm response to the school. At 8:51 the full alarm was sounded and additional resources were on their way. While the additional crews were responding the initial crews began to stretch hose lines to the building and started to make entry into the structure that was now starting to show visible fire in the attic area. As the additional crews were arriving on scene they were given assignments that included pulling down the ceilings in the portable classroom and cutting a trench in the roof. The combined efforts of the firefighting crews resulted in a rapid extinguishment of the fire that was located in the attic space and that was quickly beginning to spread through the light-weight structural members located in that small attic space. Damage was confined to one classroom of the two classroom "portable" building; the damage was mainly in the attic and on the west facing wall where the heating unit for the classroom is located. The amount of damage to the unit will make it unusable until repairs can be made. There were no reported injuries to any of the firefighters at the scene or to any civilians. The cause of the fire is being investigated by members of the Fire Dept.'s Special Investigation Unit with the focus of their investigation, at this time, to be the wall mounted heating unit of the structure.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Currently under investigation.
DAMAGE EXTENT: One classroom of the two classroom "portable" structure.
DOLLAR LOSS: 10,000
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

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

Fire Press Release

SSUING OFFICER: Mike Inman / Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 11/11/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 3121 N. Ash
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99205

NARRATIVE: At just after 8 o'clock pm Engine 3 of the Spokane Fire Department was sent on a report of an illegal burn in the yard of 3121 N. Ash. Upon arrival E3 found the house had smoke coming from a side window and the front window they approached was hot to the touch. A full alarm of two additional Engines, a Ladder Company, a Pumper Ladder, a Rescue Unit and two Battalion Chiefs were dispatched. Two members of Engine 3 began an aggressive interior attack on the fire and ventilation of the structure with two Firefighters assisting from the outside. Additional ventilation along with search for victims was accomplished by other responding crews. Nobody was found inside the vacant house. In all 23 members of the Fire Department responded and there were no reports of any injuries. Due to the rapid attack by Engine 3, damage was kept to a minimum and the fire was controlled prior to the arrival of all of the additional crews. The fire is under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department and appears to have started in the vicinity of an in - wall heating /cooling unit similar to those found in hotels and motels.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Under investigation
DAMAGE EXTENT: Confined to the heating cooling unit in the wall and soot damage throughout the house
DOLLAR LOSS: 5,000
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

Saturday, November 08, 2008

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Mike Inman / Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 11/8/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2617 W. Fairview
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99205

NARRATIVE: At 4:32 am the Spokane Fire Department was dispatched to a reported house fire at 2617 W. Fairview. The first Engine Company, Engine 3, on scene reported flames and smoke showing out of the front of the residence. That Engine Company began an aggressive fire attack as well as a search of the structure for victims. Ladder 4 also began searching for victims as well as began ventilating the heat and smoke out of the structure. Additional apparatus as they arrived helped with roof ventilation, fire attack, and patient care. In all there were 3 Engines, 1 Ladder Truck, 1 Pumper Ladder, 1 Rescue unit, 2 Battalion Chiefs and a Fire Investigator that responded. Due to an aggressive interior attack and search for victims the fire was confined to the living room and the one person, an adult male, still in the house was rescued and transported with minor injuries. Fire damage to the attic, roof and exterior was a result of fire ventilating out of a small window on the side of the house. No other injuries were reported and the fire is under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department Investigation unit. The first crew inside had to force the door to make entry and said they did not hear any smoke detectors activated. We cannot stress the importance of working smoke detectors in protecting you from early notification of smoke the leading killer in fires.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Under investigation
DAMAGE EXTENT: Extensive fire damage in the living room along with the exterior of the house along the roof line on one side of the house. Heavy smoke damage throughout the rest of the interior and heat damage in places inside the home.
DOLLAR LOSS:
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

Friday, November 07, 2008

The changes that are coming...


For those of you interested in what the Obama Administration has planned, click on the link above to view plans and submit your thoughts and ideas.

Saturday, October 25, 2008

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Bob Green/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/25/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2208 E Longfellow
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99207

NARRATIVE: The Spokane City Fire Dept. responded fire apparatus and firefighting crews to a report of a structure fire at 2208 E. Longfellow at 7:13 PM on Friday, Oct. 24th. The call for assistance was made by a neighbor who told Fire Dispatchers that there was smoke coming from the eaves of the structure and the caller was very concerned that the occupants of the home were still inside. The first arriving fire crew reported heavy smoke issuing from the eaves and other openings in the building, neighbors again voiced their concerns to the just arriving fire crews that they believed the occupants were still inside the house. Initial assignments were made by the Incident Commander on scene and those assignments were primarily focused on search and rescue priorities for occupants coupled with an aggressive interior attack at the seat of the fire. A primary search was completed and a secondary search followed, a third search was also ordered due to the concern voiced by neighbors at the scene. To the relief of firefighters and concerned neighbors it was determined that the two occupants of the home were not in the building. The seat of the fire was located in the basement and was quickly confined and extinguished. Although the fire was confined to the basement thermal and smoke damage was present in every room on the main floor and that damage was considerable. Structurally the house did not suffer serious damage however the interior finishes and the contents did sustain heavy damage. Seven pieces of fire apparatus and two Command Vehicles delivered 26 firefighters to the scene; there were no reports of any injuries to the firefighters or to any civilians. Investigators from the Fire Dept.'s Special Investigation Unit were dispatched to the fire scene and are currently undertaking the laborious process of determining a cause for this early evening house fire.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Under Investigation at this time.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Considerable fire damage to the basement, heavy smoke and thermal damage on the main floor. Contents in all areas of the building will need to be replaced.
DOLLAR LOSS: 50,000.00
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 26
MUTUAL AID: None Given

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

END OF RELEASE

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Fire Press Release

SSUING OFFICER: Craig Cornelius / Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/14/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 618 W. Shannon
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: On October 14th, 2008 at 6:32 pm the Spokane Fire Department dispatched 2 Engines, 2 Ladders, 1 Heavy Rescue and 2 Command Officer to a reported basement fire in a home located at 618 W. Shannon Ave. A Spokane Police Officer at the Neighborhood COPS substation was also notified about the fire. He arrived at the residence within a minute and reported the fire conditions to Fire Dispatch. He also made sure the occupants were out and assisted an elderly gentleman from the front of the home.

Fire Engine 3 under the direction of Lt. Greenamyer arrived with his crew within 4 minutes. Lt. Greenamyer reported that he had a single story residence with smoke and fire coming from the basement. Engine 3s crew descended through the smoke down into the basement and made a quick attack on the fire. Other fire crews on the scene provided ventilation and backup. One of the responding paramedic units tended to the elderly gentleman who was with the Spokane Police Officer.

The basement fire was knocked down within 10 minutes and was confined to the basement with heavy smoke damage occurring throughout the home. Fire crews remained on the scene for several hours.

The fast actions of the Spokane Police Officer in assisting the occupants from this home contributed to the occupant's safety, and allowed the first arriving Fire Crews to focus on quickly extinguishing the fire. The elderly gentleman assisted from the home was not injured and was not in need of transport to a hospital. Fire Crews did locate the family dog and reported it to be in good condition. The local Red Cross responded and is assisting the family.


PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of this fire is still under investigation at this time. The fire investigator will look at several possible ignition sources. One of the items that will be checked out is a portable electric heater found in the fire room. Although, it is only one of the potential sources for ignition, the Spokane Fire Department would like to remind everyone of the hazards of such electrical devices. When using these appliances this winter, remember electrical heaters should not be left on and unattended. They also pose a hazard to all combustible materials that are in close proximity the heater when it is operating.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Fire Damage : Basement
Smoke Damage: Throughout structure
DOLLAR LOSS: 10000
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

Monday, October 06, 2008

Firefighters for Obama Store...

Some of you have asked me where to get IAFF Obama signs, shirts and stickers. Click on the link above. I've also heard that the union office was going to get some stuff, but so far, I haven't been told that they have received anything.

Here's a video from Wisconsin that shows some of our brothers and sisters in the fire service, and others in public service, and why they are voting for Obama.

Sunday, October 05, 2008

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Brian Schaeffer
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/4/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 817 E INDIANA AVE
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99202

NARRATIVE: On Saturday October 4, 2008 at 11:31 AM, Six Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 3 Engines, 2 Senior Ladders and 1 Heavy Rescue under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Sabo and Green responded to a reported structure fire at 817 East Indiana. The first company arrived within 6-minutes and reported light smoke showing from a two-story wood-framed home. Spokane Police Officers were already on-scene and had responded to a call for a subject actively setting fires from the exterior of the home.

Ladder 2 and Engine 7 were utilized to extinguish the multiple fire starts and the additional companies still enroute were cancelled as the incident was brought under control in just minutes. There were no injuries to either civilians or firefighters.


PROBABLE CAUSE: A 17-year old male suspect was detained by SPD as fire companies arrived on scene. Spokane Fire's SIU Officers were still on the Mission Incident and quickly joined SPD early in the incident. The suspect is now in custody and charged with Arson in the First Degree. Additional charges may be forthcoming; however at the time of this release the suspect has been booked into the Spokane County Jail.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Damage is minor and predominately exterior and cosmetic to the home.
DOLLAR LOSS: 1000
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

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Brian Schaeffer
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/4/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 22 E Mission
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: On Saturday, October 4 2008 at 5:08 AM, 6 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 3 Engines, 1 Senior Ladder, 1 Pumper Ladder and 1 Special Rescue under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Kirsch and Fielder responded to a reported structure fire at 22 East Mission. The first company arrived within five minutes and reported smoke showing from a two-story wood framed house. The older home was remodeled into an apartment with two separate units (one upstairs and one on the ground-level). Both units were not occupied at the time of the fire; however one tenant had multiple animals which were still inside.

The well-coordinated efforts of the Spokane Firefighters resulted in the fire being located, extinguished and overhauled within an hour. Multiple animals were also removed safely by firefighters and are being cared for by a responsible neighbor.


PROBABLE CAUSE: ** (UPDATED) The cause has been determined to be incendiary and SIU Investigators have charged Beverly Nagi (57 y/o) with Arson in the First Degree. SIU Officers arrested Nagi near the fire scene this morning and she was subsequently booked into Spokane County Jail.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Significant damage to the rear exterior and nearby interior walls throughout both floors of the structure. The Spokane Chapter of American Red Cross is assisting the resident.
DOLLAR LOSS: 30000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 26
MUTUAL AID: None Given

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

END OF RELEASE

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Brian Schaeffer
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/4/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 22 E Mission
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: On Saturday, October 4 2008 at 5:08 PM, 6 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 3 Engines, 1 Senior Ladder, 1 Pumper Ladder and 1 Special Rescue under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Kirsch and Fielder responded to a reported structure fire at 22 East Mission. The first company arrived within five minutes and reported smoke showing from a two-story wood framed house. The older home was remodeled into an apartment with two separate units (one upstairs and one on the ground-level). Both units were not occupied at the time of the fire; however one tenant had multiple animals which were still inside.

The well-coordinated efforts of the Spokane Firefighters resulted in the fire being located, extinguished and overhauled within an hour. Multiple animals were also removed safely by firefighters and are being cared for by a responsible neighbor.


PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause is under investigation by the Spokane Investigation Unit.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Significant damage to the rear exterior and nearby interior walls throughout both floors of the structure.
DOLLAR LOSS: 30,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 26
MUTUAL AID: None Given

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

END OF RELEASE

Thursday, October 02, 2008

Fire Press Release

SSUING OFFICER: Bruce Moline/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/1/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 4621 N. Post
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99205

NARRATIVE: On October 1st, 2008 at 10:30 P.M. the Spokane Fire Department responded 4 engine companies, a pumper ladder company, 1 ladder company, 1 rescue unit and 2 battalion chiefs to a house fire located at 4621 N. Post. Upon arrival, fire crews found a wood frame structure that had fire coming out the front windows. Pumper Ladder 13's crew, the first to arrive, immediately attacked the fire while also asking for backup and a crew to ventilate the roof. It was soon determined that the adult occupant, who had been sleeping, had exited safely from the home. As the firefighters worked their way through the home to attack the fire, they soon found that the fire was mainly involving the front living room and kitchen areas. The fire was also rapidly extending vertically towards the attic. Through their fast and aggressive actions, the firefighters were able to knock down the fire and confine it to the front portion of the home and at the same time, keep it out of the attic area. The majority of the home was saved, however smoke damage was extensive throughout the building. A total of 24 firefighters responded to this call and it took them 15 minutes to effectively contain the fire. Fire crews will remain at this incident through the night conducting final extinguishment and making sure all of the "hotspots" are completely out. The Spokane Fire Department Special Investigation Unit was called in to investigate the fire cause. At this time, the incident remains under investigation. There were no injuries to firefighters or civilians. The home suffered extensive smoke damage and also sustained heavy fire damage to the living room and kitchen areas.



PROBABLE CAUSE: Suspicious. Under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department Special Investigation Unit.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Heavy fire damage to the living room and kitchen. Smoke damage throughout the structure.
DOLLAR LOSS: 150,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 24
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

Sunday, September 28, 2008

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Bruce Moline/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 9/28/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 558 E. Longfellow
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99207

NARRATIVE: On September 28th, 2008 at 12:54 A.M. the Spokane Fire Department responded to a report of a structure fire at 558 E. Longfellow. Fire crews found a one story single family dwelling that was well involved in fire upon arrival. A quick attack using hose lines coupled with a rapid search of the interior of the home was conducted. Nobody was found in the home. The homeowner was located and contact was made to make sure everyone was accounted for. The fire extended vertically into the attic space and fire crews had to access this roof with ladders to begin the long and arduous process of locating and extinguishing what fire remained underneath it. This involved cutting the roof apart with chainsaws, circular saws, axes and pike poles. This task took approximately 3 hours to complete. Because the roof was weakened by the fire, care was taken to make sure the fire crews were in a safe position at all times. Avista assisted in controlling and securing the natural gas and electricity to the property. The house and contents sustained major fire, water and smoke damage. The cause of this fire is currently under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department Special Investigation Unit. A total of 20 firefighters responded on this alarm with 3 engine companies, 1 pumper ladder company, 1 ladder company, a rescue unit and 2 battalion chiefs. There were no injuries to civilians or firefighters. Fire crews remained at this location throughout the night working on final extinguishment and cleanup.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department Special Investigation Unit.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Heavy fire, water and smoke damage to the structure and contents.
DOLLAR LOSS: 150,000
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

Friday, September 26, 2008

Fire Press Release

SSUING OFFICER: Mike Inman / Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 9/25/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1115 W. Nebraska
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99205

NARRATIVE: At 2:53 pm September 25, 2008 the Spokane Fire Department responded 4 Engines, 1 Ladder, 1 Rescue unit and 2 Battalion Chiefs to a single family house at 1115 W. Nebraska. The call was for a clothes dryer fire. Upon arrival of the first crew it was found that heavy smoke was issuing from all openings on the first floor of the structure. Red Cross was requested and was needed for four adults and 5 children that lived at the house. With an aggressive attack on the fire the first crew going in and backed up by a separate crew made their way into the basement where the fire was found. There were no injuries to Civilians or Firefighters. 4 cats and 1 dog were rescued and given oxygen. The fire was investigated and it appears the fire started in the clothes dryer vent and spread to surrounding combustibles in the basement. The fire had spread to floor joists but damage was kept to a minimum. Most damage was caused by the heavy smoke conditions in the structure.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Debris in and around an electric clothes dryer vent.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Heavy smoke damage throughout the house with fire damage to the area of the clothes dryer and structural members in the area of the dryer.
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

Wednesday, September 24, 2008

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Dan Brown
DATE OF INCIDENT: 9/24/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2630 North Cuba
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99207

NARRATIVE: On the morning of September 24th at 5:27am the City of Spokane Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 2630 North Cuba. Engine Company 8 reported flames and smoke coming from the basement. Attack leads were advanced into the interior and a search was conducted. Fire crews entered the fully involved basement and started extinguishment, pined up smoke and heat presented a challenge for crews. The main body of fie was knocked down in about 15minuts after arrival and overhaul continued for another hour. After the search it was confirmed that everyone was out. The residents were awaken by sounds of smoke detectors and escaped to the outside. The Spokane Fire Department can not stress enough the importance of working smoke detectors. Red Cross was responded to assist the three adults that were displaced. No injuries were reported. The basement and contents suffered extreme damage from the fire and heat, the rest of the house had smoke and heat damage. This fire is under investigation.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Under investigation
DAMAGE EXTENT: Base and contents, smoke and heat throughout.
DOLLAR LOSS: 60,000.00
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

Greek DJ continues broadcast while studio catches fire...



I suppose this guy would not call the fire department even if he had a headache, was feeling weak, had the sniffles or needed help getting his pants on in the morning.

Friday, September 12, 2008

Hydrants turned off to fight terrorism...




Privatization of a neighborhood's water supply and mindless fear of "terrorists" help burn down a house! Click here to see the video directly.

Friday, September 05, 2008

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Craig Cornelius / Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 9/5/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 5906 N. Whitehouse
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: In the early morning hours of September 5th, 2008, the Spokane Fire Department dispatched 6 fire apparatus to a reported house fire located at 5906 N. Whitehouse St. The responding fire companies were dispatched at 0256 hours. Engine 13, under the direction of Lt. Sherryl Hart was first on the scene and reported heavy fire involvement in the one story home. She, along with her crew started an aggressive fire attack within 5 minutes of the initial dispatch. Additional assignments, including searching the home for victims were given to the other fire crews as they arrived. The coordinated efforts of the fire crews brought the fire under control within 10 minutes after arrival.

There were no injuries to the firefighters or to the one occupant that lives at the home. The heavy fire involvement extensively damaged the interior of the home. Red Cross representatives responded and are assisting the one displaced occupant. The fire cause is still under investigation at this time.


PROBABLE CAUSE: Still under investigation
DAMAGE EXTENT: Extensive fire damage throughout home.
DOLLAR LOSS: 70,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 25
MUTUAL AID: None Given

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

END OF RELEASE

Wednesday, September 03, 2008

Fire Press Release

SSUING OFFICER: Bob Green/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 9/2/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2801 N Napa
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99208

NARRATIVE: The Spokane City Fire Dept. dispatched firefighting crews and fire apparatus to 2801 N. Napa at 9:52 PM, Tuesday, Sept. 2nd, on a reported warehouse fire. A large column of black smoke was visible on the horizon as fire rigs were nearing the location, as the first responding rigs got closer they could see a large amount of fire coming through the roof of a metal-clad wood/framed warehouse. Within minutes a 2nd alarm response was requested and additional fire crews and equipment were added to the response. When crews arrived on scene the fire had already heavily involved much of the structure. As fire crews worked to force entry into the locked warehouse, other crews began laying water supply lines and fire hoses to be able to be in position to advance those hose leads inside the building once entry could be made. While this work by the crews was going on outside, the fire inside continued to grow in size and intensity. As doors were finally forced or cut to provide entry into the structure the decision was made to not risk injury, or possibly more serious risks to the firefighters, by attacking this fire from the outside. Large volume water delivery devices were brought into play from the perimeter of the building and the fire was gradually knocked down. Damage to the warehouse and its contents was considerable. With the help of Spokane Police Officers who were at the scene and a helpful citizen with a pick-up truck, a number of fiberglass boats stored up against the fire building were removed from danger to areas of safety away from the building. There were no reports of injuries to any of the firefighters at the scene or to any civilians. Ten pieces of fire fighting apparatus and two Command vehicles delivered 40 firefighters to the scene of this large fire. Fire investigators from the Spokane Fire Dept.'s Special Investigation Unit were at the fire as it burned during the night and will be on scene today as soon as the sun rises to begin their task of determining a fire cause. Fire watch companies were at the scene during the night to insure that the fire was completely extinguished and to provide security for the scene as well as for the contents of the heavily damaged warehouse.



PROBABLE CAUSE: This fire is curently under investigation by the Special Investigation Unit of the Spokane City Fire Dept.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Very heavy damage to the building and to the contents of the two businesses located in the structure. Complete damage estimates have yet to be determined.
DOLLAR LOSS: 250,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 40
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

GENERAL FIRE CUSTOMER APPRECIATION DAY - SEPTEMBER 18th





Featuring food (David's pizza), door prizes, vendors and some new futuristic apparatus. Starts at 10 am and goes until 3 PM. Sounds like a good time!

Thursday, August 28, 2008

Fire Press Release

0ISSUING OFFICER: Craig Cornelius / Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 8/28/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: N 2220 Astor St.
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: This morning, August 28, 2008 at approximately 0414 hours, the Spokane Fire Department dispatched 3 Engines, 2 Ladders and 1 Heavy Rescue apparatus to a reported fire at N 2220 Astor St. The first arriving apparatus were from Fire Station One under the direction of Captain Tim Foster. He reported that the home had fire in the kitchen ceiling and that the residents had been evacuated.

Engine Ones' crew under the direction of Act. Lieutenant Jason Archibald advanced a pre-connected hose line into the home and quickly knocked down the fire. The responding firefighters brought the fire under control within minutes. Fire crews stayed on the scene for approximately 1 hour checking for fire extension and cleaning up.

There were no injuries sustained at this fire and the primary damage was confined to the kitchen and the attic area above it. At this time the fire cause has not been determined, but early indicators are leaning towards an electrical cause.

The Spokane Fire Department would like to stress the importance of having smoke detectors in every home that are properly working and checked on a regular basis. Smoke detectors save lives!



PROBABLE CAUSE: Fire Cause still under investiagtion.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Kitchen and Attic
DOLLAR LOSS: 5000
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

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

Spokefest!

There was a plug for this in a city email that went out. It looks like a lot of fun. I know that more and more are riding to work, and this might be a fun thing to do when us A-shifters get off on the morning of September 7th.

This is the first year, so you can get in on the ground floor of what, hopefully, will become a Spokane tradition. It costs $10 to register, or $25 for a family of three. Additional family members cost $5.
























The future?

Sunday, August 24, 2008

Fire Press Release

SSUING OFFICER: Ken Kirsch/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 8/24/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2515 E. Trent
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: On 08/24/08, at approximately 1503 hrs units of the City of Spokane Fire Department responded to 2515 E. Trent upon report of a structure fire. E-1 was initially dispatched to a vehicle fire at Trent and Napa and found a yellow school type bus heavily involved in fire, with the fire impinging on an adjacent metal clad building. E-1 upgraded the incident to a full alarm to bring additional fire department resources to the scene. An additional 7 fire trucks with 20 firefighters then responded to the incident. As the additional resources arrived on scene, a second pre-connected hose-line was advanced to fight the bus fire. At the same time other crews forced entry into the metal clad building, located the area in which fire had entered the building, and extinguished the fire with hose-lines. The fire was brought under control in about 15 minutes with crews remaining on scene for another 2 hrs to conduct overhaul operations to assure fire extinguishment.

A total of nine fire trucks with 27 firefighters responded to this blaze. No injuries were reported to either firefighters or civilians.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The bus involved in this incident was a total loss suffering fire, smoke, and water damage. Fire did enter the metal clad building, causing minor damage to the northeast portion of the building.
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

Saturday, August 23, 2008

Kevin's Ugly Duck Posting Plucked...



























Kevin was contacted by Chief Schaeffer who requested its removal. Kevin left the decision to me. I have removed it.

I think all of you have had a chance to read it. If not, either Kevin or I can forward it to you.

I don't know what the story is. But, according to their radio spots - "The Ugly Duck is a liquidator."

That's enough warning for me, and might explain the muffled quacking I heard outside my window last night.

I hope you all are "down" with this editorial decision.

Tuesday, August 19, 2008

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Bruce Moline/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 8/18/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2302 W. Gardner
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: On August 18th, 2008 at 3:09 P.M. the Spokane Fire Department responded to a garage fire located at 2302 W. Gardner. Fire crews found a grass fire in an alley that was also extending to the interior of a detached wood frame garage. A quick "knock down" was achieved in approximately 15 minutes. Although there was another exposure that was close to the garage, it was spared due to the quick actions of the firefighters. Damage was confined to the garage and some of the contents inside. A total of 3 engine companies, 2 ladder companies, a rescue unit and 2 battalion chiefs responded on this incident. The fire is under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department Special Investigation Unit. Crews remained on the scene conducting final extinguishment and assisting with the investigation. The residents in the dwelling next door were not at home during the fire but did arrive later while fire crews were still on the scene. The fire was called in by an alert passerby.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Under investigation at this time by the Spokane Fire Department Special Investigation Unit.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The garage and contents received extensive heat damage.
DOLLAR LOSS: 20,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 19
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

Friday, August 08, 2008

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Craig Cornelius / Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 8/8/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2428 W 14th
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: On August 7th 2008, at approximately 0700 hours the Spokane Fire Department dispatched 3 Engines, 2 Ladders, 1 Heavy Rescue apparatus and 2 Chief Officers to a reported home fire at 2428 W. 14th Ave. The first two arriving apparatus were Engine 4 and Ladder 4. Lieutenants Jay Holder and Ryan Reding reported smoke showing upon their arrival. They quickly directed their crews to search the home and to start extinguishment of the fire. Due to Station 4's quick actions the fire that had extended from the bathroom area into the attic was rapidly knocked down. The elderly couple that lived in the home were medically checked out. No injuries occurred at this fire and the fire damage was confined to the bathroom and the attic area above. The fire is still being investigated, but early indicators are pointing towards a faulty fan unit in the bathroom ceiling

PROBABLE CAUSE: Still under investigation.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Fire damage to the back bathroom and attic.
DOLLAR LOSS: 5000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 24
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 RELEAS

Tuesday, August 05, 2008

Communities starting to crack down on frivolous 9-1-1 calls!

Recently we had a third-party cell phone call for a lady slumped over the wheel at a bank drive-through. Turns out she was waiting for the bank to open, and she wasn't paying attention to her posture. Ah scoliosis, the silent killer.

Looks like we're not the only ones who get 9-1-1 calls simply because it's free to call on a cell phone. Other places are realizing what it's costing them and doing something about it.

I would really like the opportunity to call the cell phone callers back. Not to be a jerk, but just to let them know that their reporting a lady waiting at a bank / a bag of leaves on a lawn / a water sprinkler/ a flag flying in the breeze/ lawn art/ a walking drunk man / a billboard advertisement/ a guy napping/ a baby upchucking/ a woman breastfeeding/ a stuck pair of suspenders/ circus clowns eating lunch/ not a chupacabra/ fog/ a skunk - set this diesel-exhaust-spewing 9-1-1 machine in motion. I wonder if some people do this because they think it is funny.

Maybe there should be a law that if you call 9-1-1, you have to stay on-scene until we get there. Maybe we should charge 25 cents per call - a small price to pay if it truly is an emergency. The money could go into our fuel account.

The silliness has to stop. And it looks like other places are figuring out ways to do just that.

If there are truly terrorists at work trying to bankrupt our cities and our nation, I would think that using a cell phone to dial 9-1-1 for frivolous reasons is an effective way to accomplish their mission of economic havoc. Perhaps there is some homeland security money we can procure to stop them.

Saturday, August 02, 2008

Fire Press Release

SSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Steve Sabo
DATE OF INCIDENT: 8/2/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1313 N. Ruby St.
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99202

NARRATIVE: At 0630 this morning, Saturday August 2, 2008, the Spokane Fire Department responded to a reported fire in Sonic restaurant at 1313 N. Ruby. The first crews on scene reported a fire behind the fryer unit in the kitchen. The fire was quickly knocked down, and there was no fire extension to the structure. Damage was confined to the fryer unit, with minor smoke damage throughout the restaurant. Health officials were notified of the situation and are expected to conduct an inspection of the restaurant prior to the business resuming operation.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire was the fryer unit. Fire investigators have yet to determine whether the unit malfunctioned or whether there may have been maintenance problems.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Damage to the structure and contents is estimated to be $12,000.
DOLLAR LOSS: 12000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 29
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

Thursday, July 31, 2008

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Brian Schaeffer, Assistant Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 7/31/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 502 East Cataldo
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99202

NARRATIVE: On Thursday July 31, 2008 at 11:10 AM (during the 722 Altamont Fire), six companies of Spokane Firefighters, 4 Engines and 2 Senior Ladders under the direction of Battalion Chief Hanna responded to a reported building fire at the Applied Sciences Building 502 East Cataldo on the Gonzaga Campus.

When Ladder 2 and Chief Hanna arrived, they were met by security and reported a 3-story commercial building with confirmed smoke in the basement. Companies were utilized to search and simultaneously evacuate the building while others located and extinguished the fire. The incident was placed under control in less than 30-minutes and no firefighters or civilians were injured during the event.


PROBABLE CAUSE: The origin of the fire was in basement mechanical room and cause was a electrical.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Damage was limited to the mechanical room and minor smoke odor/damage in the basement.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 22
MUTUAL AID: None Given

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

END OF RELEASE

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Brian Schaeffer, Assistant Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 7/31/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 722 South Altamont
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99202

NARRATIVE: On Thursday July 31, 2008 at 9:55 AM, 6 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 4 Engines, 1 Heavy Rescue, and 1-Senior Ladder under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Ken Kirsch and Joel Fielder responded to a reported Apartment Fire at 722 South Altamont. When the first company arrived, they reported heavy smoke and fire showing from the second floor of a multiple family, two-story townhome. Neighbors and Police nearby also told arriving firefighters that there were children missing. The Ladder company was immediately used to ventilate the roof and search for the missing children while Engine companies attempted to extinguish the fire from the second floor. Due to the fire's conditions and construction type, the alarm was also upgraded to a working fire which added an additional Engine, Senior Ladder and Pumper-Ladder. It took 33 Firefighters 45 minutes to locate and knock down the fire and control the incident. Firefighters were able to limit the damage to the second floor and attic areas of the building. All children were accounted for and were removed prior to the SFD's arrival by neighbors. A young child received moderate burn injuries from the fire and received treatment by SFD Paramedics, however refused transport by AMR. The child was reportedly transported by relatives to the hospital at the time of this release. No firefighters were injured as a result of the incident.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The origin of the fire was on the second floor balcony. The cause was an unsupervised 4-year old child playing with matches.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Damage is significant throughout the second floor. Structural integrity of the roof members and associated lightweight wood-frame structural members is in question. Re-occupancy is not possible without considerable clean up and construction.
DOLLAR LOSS: 80,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 33
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

Saturday, July 26, 2008

Fire Press Release

Some of you have been asking about the press release for the Dorian Fire. There isn't one yet. Maybe there won't be one because every news outlet was already there. Whenever there is a release, it'll get posted here.

Sunday, July 20, 2008

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Ken Kirsch/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 7/19/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 520 W Sharp
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: On 07/19/08, at approximately 1426 hrs units of the City of Spokane Fire Department responded to 520 W Sharp upon report of a structure fire. First arriving fire department units found a one and one half story, wood-frame, single family residence, with the rear of the structure fully involved in fire. A commercial structure, in very close proximity to the fire building, had flames lapping on its' siding and roof areas. Fire crews had to deal with the fire structure as well as the exposure building. Advancement of pre-connected hose-lines, roof ventilation, as well as search and rescue operations were conducted on the main fire structure. At the same time fire crews forced entry into the exposure building, advanced hose-lines inside, and used exterior lines to protect the building from fire damage. The fire was brought under control within approximately one and one half hours. Crews will remain on scene throughout the night to assure extinguishment. Damage to the exposure building was limited to the exterior siding, with very minor damage to the interior. The main fire building had severe fire damage to most areas of the interior and is considered a total loss.

A total of 27 firefighters on 10 trucks battled the blaze at its height. Firefighters will remain on scene until fire investigators return in the morning to continue their investigation into the cause. Two firefighters were injured during the blaze, with one suffering a laceration to his hand, while the other had an ankle sprain.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of this fire is currently undetermined. Investigators will be back on scene early tomorrow morning to continue their investigation of the fire cause.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Damage to the exposure building was limited to the exterior siding, with very minor damage to the interior. The main fire building had severe fire damage to most areas of the interior and is considered a total loss.

DOLLAR LOSS: 100,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 27
MUTUAL AID: None Given

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

END OF RELEASE

Tuesday, July 15, 2008

Fire Press Release

SSUING OFFICER: Craig Cornelius / Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 7/14/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 4003 S. Crestline
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: On July 14, 2008 at 1502 hours the Spokane Fire Department dispatched 4 Engines, 2 Ladders, 1 Heavy Rescue and 2 Command Officers to a reported house fire located at S. 4003 Crestline St. Callers reporting the fire to Fire Dispatch stated that the home was fully involved with fire and that the occupants had been evacuated. Engine 14 was the first apparatus to arrive. Engine 14's officer, Todd Powell reported that they had a 1 story rancher with fire showing from the front living room windows. Lt. Powell upgraded the fire and his crew advanced pre-connected hose lines into the home. Additional arriving fire fighters ventilated the home's roof to release fire that had spread into the attic. The fire was brought under control within 15 minutes, but crews worked on the scene for an additional 1 hour.

The occupants of this home were very fortunate. They were unaware that a well established fire was burning in the front part of their home. Neighbors noticed the fire, called 911 and assisted the elderly couple from the home. Fire fighters checked the couple out for injuries and found none. The couple will be assisted by the Red Cross.

There were no injuries at this fire. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.


PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of this fire is still under investigation.
DAMAGE EXTENT: 25 percent of the first floor.
DOLLAR LOSS: 50000
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

Friday, July 11, 2008

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Mike Inman / Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 7/11/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1727 W. Sinto
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: At just after 1pm on Thursday July 11, 2008 the Spokane Fire Department was dispatched on a fire in the alley behind a commercial building. Upon arrival it was found that there was and area about 200 square feet burning and extending into a commercial building with a heavy fire load of wood products. A quick attack was attempted but the fire had spread into the structure and a 2nd alarm was requested followed shortly by a 3rd alarm. All together 66 Firefighters, 11 command staff, and several support agencies responded in 31 fire vehicles. The fire is under investigation and nobody was injured. Damage to the Ugly Duck liquidators was significant but most of the business sustained little or no damage. This fire which stretched the city's resources occurred during a red flag warning for high winds and low humidity which assisted in a number of large fire events at the same time.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Under investigation
DAMAGE EXTENT: One entire building and the contents of a business
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 66
MUTUAL AID: FAFB, Fire District 9, GEG Airport FD


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

Friday, July 04, 2008

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Brian Schaeffer
DATE OF INCIDENT: 7/4/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Multiple Alarms
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 9 S Pittsburg
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: On Wednesday, July 2 2008 at 3:35 PM, 6 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 4 Engines, 1 Senior Ladder and 1 Heavy Rescue Company under the direction of Battalion Chief Cornelius responded to a reported structure fire at 9 South Pittsburg. Within minutes, Engine 7 reported heavy smoke fire showing from the second floor of the multiple-use building as they left the station. The building is a large two-story building with basement storage, two commercial businesses on the first floor and multiple apartments on the second floor.

As initial companies stretched pre-connected lines from Engine 7, the first ladder company fought their way to the second floor to evacuate residents and search for victims. When the first Chief arrived, he sized up the status of the fire and requested a second alarm due to the construction, potential for trapped victims and extreme heat (98 degrees ambient temperature at the time of the fire).

The second alarm brought an additional Ladder Company, Pumper-Ladder, three engines as well as the SFD's Training staff, Red Cross, SFD's CARES and additional Chief Officers. The IC also special-requested three AMR ambulances and their supervisor de to the potential for residents to require treatment from the effects of the smoke and fire.

Over the course of 40-minutes, fire attack teams extinguished the fire. Ladder companies searched the entire building removing occupants as they went. The building was ventilated and atmosphere was made tenable simultaneously. Rehydration and constant rotation of companies were necessary to prevent illness and injury of the firefighters from the extreme heat and conditions. SFD Training and EMS Staff personnel monitored firefighter's vital signs closely and aggressively re-hydrated them during the incident.

The incident was under controlled within 90 minutes and no firefighters were injured during the event. District 9 and District 8 companies were called to staff two SFD Stations during the incident.


PROBABLE CAUSE: The majority of damage was confined to the second floor apartment, unit number 6. The aggressive interior fire attack not only assisted in extinguishing the fire, it also provided Firefighters the opportunity to save the majority of the building and contents. The preliminary cause of the fire has been determined to be accidental--a young male using a flammable liquid during floor cleaning. Vapors from the flammable liquid found a pilot light which caused an explosive fire. The young male was identified by an officer from Rescue 1 and immediately treated by SFD Paramedics and transported to the hospital urgently.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The majority of damage was confined to the second floor apartment, unit number 6. The aggressive interior fire attack not only assisted in extinguishing the fire, it also provided Firefighters the opportunity to save a large portion of the building and contents.
DOLLAR LOSS: 20,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 40
MUTUAL AID: Fire District 8, Fire District 9


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

Wednesday, June 25, 2008

Fire Press Release

SSUING OFFICER: Ken Kirsch Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 6/24/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 808 W Maxwell
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: On 06/24/08 at approximately 1352 hrs units of the City of Spokane Fire Department responded to 808 W. Maxwell upon report of a structure fire. First arriving crews on the scene found a one story, wood-frame, single family residence with light smoke showing from the front of the structure. SFD members advanced a pre-connected hose-line to the fire area, which appeared to be the exterior siding near the front porch. The burning siding was extinguished and additional siding was removed to check for any fire extension to other areas of the home. Fire crews checked both the basement and the attic areas and found no fire extension. Gas powered fans were then used to clear the rest of the house of any lingering smoke.

A total of 10 apparatus with 27 firefighters responded to this incident. No injuries to either firefighters or civilians were reported. No one was home at the time of the incident. Fire crews were on scene for approximately 70 minutes.



PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of this fire is currently undetermined and under investigation. A Fire Investigator was still on scene at the time of this news release. Additional information on this incident will be available later by contacting Lt. Jimmy Bowen at 625-7053.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The main area of fire damage was to the exterior and interior wall of the residence near the front porch. This is also the area in which siding was removed to check for any additional spread of the fire. The fire was confined to the exterior siding and a small amount of interior wall framing. Minor smoke damage was evident on the main floor and in the basement areas.
DOLLAR LOSS: 2,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 27
MUTUAL AID: None Given

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

END OF RELEASE

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Bruce Moline/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 6/23/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2812 W. Cleveland
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99205

NARRATIVE: On June 23rd, 2008 at 2:25 P.M. the Spokane Fire Department responded 3 engine companies, 1 pumper ladder company, 1 ladder company, 1 rescue unit and 2 battalion chiefs to a house fire located at 2812 W. Cleveland. Fire crews found a one story home with smoke coming from the attic and roof. Firefighters made quick access into the home and with the use of their thermal imaging camera, they found a fire burning above the bathroom ceiling. Because this fire was in a concealed space, fire crews had to pull the ceiling down to expose the area in order to extinguish the fire. At the same time, a ladder crew was poised on the roof ready to ventilate in coordination with the fire extinguishment effort going on below. As a result of their quick action, the fire was kept small and involved a small portion of the attic. Fire damage was confined to ceiling joists, wiring and attic insulation. A total of 20 firefighters fought this fire. The homeowner, who was at work, was notified and soon arrived. The fire was called in by an alert neighbor who noticed smoke coming from the eaves and roof. The investigation revealed that this fire had been burning for a long time undetected in the attic and was caused by an electrical malfunction in wiring connected to a bathroom fan. It was found that there were working smoke detectors inside the home in the living areas, however the fire was burning above these locations, and the smoke that was generated rose vertically and stayed within the attic space and did not activate the detectors below. There were no injuries to firefighters or civilians.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Electrical malfunction involving wiring and a bathroom fan.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Fire damage to wiring, insulation and wooden structural members.
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

Monday, June 23, 2008

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Ken Kirsch Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 6/22/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 625 N. Monroe
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: On 06/22/08 at approximately 0626 hrs units of the City of Spokane Fire Department responded to 625 N. Monroe upon report of a structure fire. First arriving fire department crews found smoke coming from the roof and eaves of a one story, masonry block commercial structure. The occupant of the fire damaged building is Golden Rule Brakes. Fire department crews advanced pre-connected hose-lines into the interior of the structure to extinguish the advancing blaze. At the same time crews were sent to cut a hole in the roof to ventilate the heat and toxic gases that had built up inside the building from the fire. The fire was brought under control within approximately 30 minutes, with crews remaining on scene to work with the property manager and conduct overhaul operations for about another 90 minutes.

A total of 33 firefighters on 11 trucks responded to this incident. No injuries to firefighters or civilians were reported.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire is currently undetermined and under investigation. For more information on this incident contact The City of Spokane Fire Department Investigation Unit at 625-7052 on Monday.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The fire was confined to a room in the east portion of the building, with smoke damage evident throughout the rest of the structure. Some water damage was also evident.
DOLLAR LOSS: 20,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 33
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

Friday, June 20, 2008

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Craig Cornelius Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 6/20/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1306 S. Westcliff Place
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE:
On June 20, 2008 at approximately 0921 hours, the Spokane Fire Department dispatched 2 Aerial Ladders, 3 Engines, 1 Heavy Rescue and 2 Command vehicles to a reported apartment fire located at 1306 S. Westcliff Place. The arriving fire crews found light smoke showing from the eaves and ridge vents of a two story apartment building. The building occupants had been alerted to the fire by means of a smoke detector and had evacuated the building. Fire crews found a smoldering fire in the attic area above a second floor bathroom. The fire was quickly extinguished by Engine 4's crew and confined to the ceiling area above the bathroom. There were no injuries to civilians or firefighters at this incident.


PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause appears to have been an overheated bathroom exhaust fan.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Confined to Bathroom
DOLLAR LOSS: 1500
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 26
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Mike Inman / Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 6/20/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 4003 E. Cleveland
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99207

NARRATIVE: June 20, 2008 the Spokane Fire responded to its second mattress fire of the night and within a mile of the first one. The second fire at 4003 E. Cleveland came in at 1:19 am and is under investigation. Two civilians sustained minor injuries, one has burns on the wrist and the second was smoke inhalation. Neither of the patients wanted to be transported and was looked at by Fire Department Paramedics on the scene. When the homeowner was asked if smoke detectors woke them up he claimed they did not have any and the smoke woke him up. This is a dangerous mindset that smoke will wake you up as it is more likely to suffocate you in your sleep. You can not beat the reliability of working smoke detectors properly placed inside your house for early warning of fire. The Fire Department responded 7 pieces of equipment with 19 Firefighters to this incident and quickly brought the fire under control with one attack line. The house was searched to make sure everyone was out and ventilation fans were set to clear the smoke out of the house.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Under investigation
DAMAGE EXTENT: Contents of 1 bedroom with smoke damage throughout the second floor of the house.
DOLLAR LOSS: 3000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 19
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

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Mike Inman / Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 6/19/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 3411 E. Jackson
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99207

NARRATIVE: Just after 10 pm on June 19, 2008 the Spokane Fire Department was dispatched on a reported house fire at 3411 E. Jackson in Spokane, WA. One Ladder Truck, one Rescue Unit, four Engines and a Battalion Chief with 19 Firefighters responded to what turned out to be a mattress fire with heat and smoke damage to the contents of one bedroom. Adults on scene indicated that one or more of the 3 children at the home were playing with matches. The children's ages were 13, 5 and 2. Information was gathered regarding the 3 children and will be turned over to a Fire Investigator and the departments Pub. Ed. Officer. Quick action by the resident with initial attack and then closing the door minimized the spread of the fire. Upon arrival Fire Crews rapidly removed the mattresses and extinguished the fire. It was noticed in the home that the smoke detector sustained significant damage due to heat and did not have a battery so was not sounding. The Spokane Fire Department would like to remind the public of the importance of keeping lighters, matches and other ignition sources out of reach of children. Also, the importance of maintaining smoke detectors in a working manner for the safety of everyone in the home cannot be over stated.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Under investigation but appears to be juveniles playing with matches.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Mattress fire with heat and smoke damage to the contents of one bedroom and minor smoke damage outside of the bedroom.
DOLLAR LOSS: 1000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 19
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

Tuesday, June 17, 2008

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Craig Cornelius, Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 6/17/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 218 W. 25th
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: On June 17, 2008 at 0351 hours the Spokane Fire Department dispatched 6 fire apparatus and 2 command vehicles (total of 24 personnel), for a reported structure fire located at 218 W. 25th Ave. Fire Dispatch received several 911 calls from the home owners and neighbors who reported a large amount of fire in the home's garage. Engine 9 arrived within 4 minutes of being dispatched and reported that fire had fully involved the home's garage and the 2 vehicles parked inside. Engine 9 extended pre-connected hose lines to fight the fire and assigned work to the other incoming apparatus. Additional fire hose lines were deployed to protect the surrounding exposures. The fire was brought under control within 15 minutes, but several units worked at the scene for well over an hour.

There were no injuries to civilians at this fire. One firefighter reported a strained shoulder as a result of fighting the fire. The quick actions of the firefighters confined the majority of the fire damage to the garage and contents which were a total loss. The radiant heat from the fire cracked windows on the home and melted exterior yard lights.




PROBABLE CAUSE: The fire cause at this time is still under investigation. Early indicators are leading us to believe this fire was intentionally set.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Garage and Contents are a total loss.
DOLLAR LOSS: 60,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 24
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