Fire Press Release

Narrative:
At 7:00 P.M. on Saturday October 22nd, 2011 the Spokane Fire Department responded to a report of a house fire at 1717 S. Upper Terrace in the Rockwood Neighborhood. Engine 9 from their neighborhood station location at 18th and Bernard was the first crew to arrive. Upon entry to the home, they noticed a smoke haze on the second level of the home and after inspecting the attic area, they found a fire that was burning above the bathroom, office and bedroom areas. A rapid stretch of hose was accomplished along with accessing the roof for vertical ventilation and an aggressive offensive attack was deployed. Both occupants had safely made their way out of the home on their own. The lath ceiling needed to be removed in order to thoroughly expose all of the flames for extinguishment. Once this was done, fire crews could witness burning structural supports along with insulation also being consumed in the fire. A knockdown of the fire was completed after 10 minutes. Shortly after this, much time was spent in the overhaul process which consisted of debris removal and making sure the fire was dead out. The cause of this fire is unknown at this time, however appears to be electrical in nature. The fire is under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department Special Investigation Unit.

Cause:
Under investigation at this time by the Spokane Fire Department Special Investigation Unit.

Damage:
The attic sustained significant damage from the fire including structural supports, wiring and insulation. There was also moderate smoke damage throughout the home.

# Firefighters Responding: 19

Dollar Loss: $20,000

End Of Release
For more information on this release please call (509) 625-7002