Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Dan Brown
DATE OF INCIDENT: 7/11/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 8424 North Nevada st.
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99207

NARRATIVE: On the morning of July11 2007 at 03:48 Hrs the City of Spokane Fire Department responded 9 fire apparatus to a reported apartment fire in the Cedar Springs Apartment complex at 8424 North Nevada St. Fire Engine 18 responding from the 200 block of East Lincoln RD. reported a large column of black smoke showing. Upon arrival Engine 18 reported a fully involved apartment on the second floor of a 6 unit apartment complex. Fire attack was initiated using 2.1/2 and 13/4 inch pre-connected hose lines. A search was ordered and roof ventilation was started. A second alarm was requested which brought 3 more apparatus and overhead command to the scene. The main body of the fire was knocked down in about 20 minutes overhaul and final extinguishment took about 2 hours. The apartment of fire origin was a total loss and adjoining apartments suffered some water, smoke and overhaul damage. Red Cross assisted the tenants that were displaced by the fire. The firefighters that responded to this early morning alarm did an excellent job in confining this fire to the apartment on the second floor. No injuries were reported. The cause of this fire was a cigarette being placed in a flower pot on the deck igniting wood mulch in the pot and spreading fire to the exterior. Fire extended to a barbeque and set off a one pound propane tank causing an explosion. The fire department would like to remind everyone to be careful of open flame of any kind and use the proper containers to dispose of such items.
A total of 34 Firefighters and 6 additional command officers answered this alarm.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Cigarette in Flower pot
DAMAGE EXTENT: Total losss of the fire apartment and damage to adjoining apartments.
DOLLAR LOSS: 100,000.00
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 34
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Brian Schaeffer, Assistant Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 7/8/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1903 West Broadway
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: On Sunday, July 8, 2007 at 4:02 PM, 6 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 3 Engines, 2 Senior Ladders and 1 Heavy Rescue under the direction of Battalion Chief Sabo responded to a reported fire in an apartment at 1903 West Broadway.

The first company arrived within four-minutes to discover smoke showing from the first floor apartment of a converted two-story wood-frame residential structure. Initial companies were utilized to simultaneously search the apartment for victims and attack the fire. Despite the amount of heat and extended burn time, Firefighters were able to confine the blaze to the room of origin, with only superficial damage to nearby kitchen and bedrooms. They extinguished the flames in just 10 minutes. The presence of a functional smoke detector alerted other tenants of the apartment building which immediately called 911. There were no injuries and the tenant was not home at the time of the fire.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Structural damage is minor, damage to contents and adjoining rooms is significant
DOLLAR LOSS: 20000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 22
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Three Fire Press Releases

ISSUING OFFICER: Ken Kirsch/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 7/7/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: Muliple
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: The City of Spokane Fire Department had a very busy day on 07/06/07, with several fire incidents taking place. Here are the highlights of each.

At 1659 hrs crews of the Spokane Fire Department responded to 2727 E. 53rd upon report of a structure fire. First arriving crews found four units of an apartment building heavily involved in fire. Several apartment buildings surrounded the units on fire. With winds coming from the west and the fire in the east most portion of the involved structure, another nearby apartment building was endangered. SFD crews were able to protect the surrounding apartment buildings by advancing exposure protection leads. In addition crews held the main body of fire to the four involved apartments. Other units in the building also suffered some fire, water and smoke damage. Fire crews did an outstanding job of limiting the spread of the fire in this incident. After extinguishment of the main body of fire, firefighters remained on scene throughout the night to monitor conditions. Firefighters will continue to be on scene today to assure that the fire is out. The cause of this fire is still under investigation.

One firefighter was injured during this incident. He suffered a leg injury when falling debris hit him. He was transported to a local hospital, treated, and did not return to duty. The injuries did not appear to be serious. No injuries were reported to civilians. Several pets did die during this incident.

The next fire incident occurred at 0018 hrs at 1107 N. Freya. This is a one story, masonry, commercial structure. The business is "Blue Ribbon Linen Supply". They specialize in linen and uniform rental service and in janitorial chemicals and supplies. First arriving crews found light smoke coming from the structure. SFD members advanced pre-connected hose-lines into the structure and found several carts of business goods on fire. Firefighters quickly extinguished the fire and removed fire damaged goods from the building. Fire damage was confined mainly to goods on the carts. Minor fire damage occurred to wall and ceiling surfaces in the area near the fire damaged carts. Smoke damage was evident throughout. Firefighters were on scene for approximately one and one half hours. No injuries were reported to firefighters. This fire will be investigated today. No cause has yet been determined.

At 0506 hrs on 07/07/07 units of the SFD responded to 1804 E Sharp upon report to a garage on fire. Smoke from the blaze could be seen from down-town. First arriving units found one garage fully involved in fire and the fire had ignited a nearby car and another garage. Firefighters used pre-connected hose-lines to quickly extinguish the blaze. The first garage was a total loss, with none of it remaining standing. The nearby car was also a total loss. The second garage suffered only minor damage. Fire investigators will be looking over this scene today in an attempt to determine the fire cause. No injuries were report at this scene.

After this busy night firefighters will try to catch their breath and prepare for any upcoming emergencies. With continued dry weather, and hot temperatures fire danger will remain high.

PROBABLE CAUSE: All incidents are under investigation.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Undtermined
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE:
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Ken Kirsch/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 6/28/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 3807 E. 4th
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: On 06/28/07 at approximately 2223 hrs units of the Spokane Fire Department responded to 3807 E. 4th upon report of a structure fire. First arriving Fire Department members found a one story, wood-frame, storage building totally involved in fire. The building was located on an alley, behind the primary residence on the property. The primary residence was at no time endangered by the fire, but a nearby play-house suffered minor damage to the roof. Firefighters advanced pre-connected hose-lines to extinguish the main blaze, as well as to protect the nearby play-house. The fire was quickly brought under control within 15 minutes, with firefighters remaining on scene for about 90 minutes to conduct overhaul operations. A total of 20 firefighters on 9 trucks fought this blaze. No injuries were reported to either firefighters or civilians.
PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire is currently undetermined. Fire investigators will inspect the remains of the building, as well as conduct interviews later today.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The fire damaged building was a total loss. First units on the scene found the storage building fully involved in fire. After extinguishment significant overhaul was necessary to assure the fire was out, this included removing most of the roof covering. All areas of the interior of the structure were fire, water and smoke damaged.
DOLLAR LOSS: 10,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 20
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Bruce Moline/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 6/28/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 915 N. Cannon
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: On 6/28/07 at 12:52 A.M. the Spokane Fire Department responded 6 pieces of apparatus to a vacant house on fire located at 915 N. Cannon. Fire crews found a boarded up two story home that was fully involved in flames upon their arrival. Hose lines were stretched to two nearby buildings in order to prevent any further spread of the fire.. Because of the massive heat involved in this building, fire crews stayed on the outside rather than going inside as some of the flooring had already burned through and collapsed. Firefighters also paid special attention to the power lines that were overhead and close to the flames. Eventually, a transformer exploded and some wires dropped due to their proximity to the fire. It took firefighters approximately 1 hour to contain the flames and this was done mainly through the use of an elevated water stream from a ladder truck. There were no reported injuries to firefighters or civilians. The cause of this fire is unknown at this time however it is being investigated by the Spokane Fire Department. Apparatus that responded were 3 engine companies, 2 ladder companies, 1 rescue company, 1 pumper ladder company and 2 battalion chiefs. Fire crews will be busy controlling hot spots throughout the rest of the night and likely will be continuing this work through the coming day. If you have any information concerning this fire please call the Spokane Fire Department Investigation Division at 625-7052 or 625-7053.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Unknown at this time. Under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department Investigation Division.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Total loss.
DOLLAR LOSS: 140,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 26
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Brian Schaeffer, Assistant Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 6/26/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1627 West Mansfield Avenue
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: On Tuesday, June 26, 2007 at 10:34 AM, 8 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 3 Engines, 1 Heavy Rescue, 2 Ladders under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Steve Sabo and Bob Green responded to a commercial structure fire at 1627 West Mansfield Avenue.


The first company arrived within 4-minutes and reported smoke and flames showing from the roof of a two-story "tax payer" structure. Arriving engine companies stretched multiple handlines to the second floor from a street-level stairway while the first-in ladder company used their apparatus ladder to reach the fire and perform ventilation. Additional companies were also utilized to evacuate remaining tenants from units below the fire and escort them safely to the street.


It took 24 Firefighters just 30 minutes to knock down the fire and control the incident. There were no civilians or firefighters injured throughout the operations.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of this incident was concluded to be accidental and determined to be misuse of a torch during a roofing repair by workers.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Structural damage is moderate and Red Cross has been notified to assist the temporarily displaced tenants.
DOLLAR LOSS: 20000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 24
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Brian Schaeffer, Assistant Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 6/26/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1209 East Lyons Avenue, Lot 218
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99208

NARRATIVE: On Tuesday, June 26, 2007 at 7:02 AM, 9 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 4 Engines, 1 Heavy Rescue, 1 Ladder and 1 Pumper-Ladder under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Steve Sabo and Bob Green responded to a residential structure fire at 1209 East Lyons Avenue, Lot 218.


The caller reporting the fire was a neighbor that was able to view fire showing from the windows of the residence. The two residents (husband and wife) were awoken by an alarming smoke detector and narrowly escaped the rapidly escalating fire.


The first company arrived within 5-minutes and reported heavy smoke and fire showing from a single-wide trailer. There was an intense fire in the far south bedroom that was rapidly consuming combustibles and moving north to the remainder of the trailer. The first and second companies encountered two patients (both residents of the home) injured from smoke and heat. Fortunately, both companies are staffed with Paramedic/Firefighters and they began treating the victims while other crews simultaneously stretched multiple handlines and were able to confine the fire to the southern potion of the trailer. Concurrently, Ladder companies ventilated remaining areas and searched the trailer to guarantee there were no other victims and attempted to locate a family pet. Companies working on the interior encountered multiple explosions as they searched and attacked the fire. The explosions were caused by numerous flame-impinged medical oxygen cylinders.


It took 28 Firefighters just 20 minutes to knock down the fire and control the incident. Both patients were seriously injured with varying degrees of thermal injuries and smoke inhalation and were transported to a local hospital for treatment. Despite the compressed oxygen-fueled fire and explosions, no firefighters were injured throughout this incident.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of this incident was concluded to be accidental and determined to be misuse of smoking material.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Damage is significant. Structurally the trailer is a total loss; however some of the contents were salvageable. The SFD worked feverishly to salvage as much of the resident's personal effects as possible.
DOLLAR LOSS: 50000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 28
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Joel Fielder/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 6/24/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1517 East Rockwell
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: On June 24, 2007 the Spokane Fire Department responded at approximately 10:55 PM to 1517 East Rockwell. The first crew on-scene reported smoke and fire showing at the at the back of a One story, wood framed single family residence. The occupants of the structure reported that the fire was in a bedroom in the basement. Fire fighters aggressively performed an interior attack on the fire while additional fire crews completed search and rescue, roof ventilation and salvage and overhaul. The fire was brought under control within 30 minutes. Two civilians were taken to a local hospital with one male occupant treated for 1st and 2nd degree burns to his feet and hands and one female occupant was treated for possible smoke inhalation. One firefighter was also transported to a hospital and treated for smoke inhalation and was released and returned to duty approximately one hour later. Eight fire companies with 26 firefighters responded to this fire and were on scene for approximately 2.5 hours. Two adults and one child were displaced by the fire and are being assisted by the Spokane Chapter of the American Red Cross.

The Spokane Fire Department would like to take this opportunity to state the importance of installing properly working smoke detectors through out your home. The occupant in the basement bedroom of the residence did not have a properly working smoke detector and narrowly escaped the fire.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire is under investigation by Fire Investigator Lt. Greg McClatchey.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Fire damage was confined to the basement with heat and smoke damage through out the rest of the structure.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE:
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Steve Sabo
DATE OF INCIDENT: 6/22/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2442 N. Perry and 1412 E. Jackson
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: At 6:38 PM on Friday, June 22, 2007 the Spokane Fire Department responded a single fire company to a reported brush and debris fire near a garage at 2442 N. Perry in the city of Spokane. The responding crew reported, enroute, a large column of smoke and requested a full alarm response. Upon arrival they found a detached two-car garage fully involved, as well as a second garage and two adjacent houses on fire. Additionally, two pickups, a car, and a travel trailer were beginning to catch fire from the heat. Smoke from the fire was easily visible to fire crews responding from downtown. An electrical service line to one of the houses burned through and dropped to the ground, arching and popping as crews carefully worked around it. The main body of fire was knocked down within 15 minutes, but engine and ladder companies worked several hours longer to expose and extinguish hidden fire in both of the houses. There were no occupants in either house at the time of the fire. A search for victims did locate one dog and one cat in the second house, which was addressed 1412 E. Jackson. Both were pets were uninjured and were safely secluded in the basement until animal control personnel could respond. Avista responded to secure the damaged electrical service wires. 28 firefighters responded to this fire, including two battalion chiefs and two investigators. There were no injuries to civilians or firefighters. Red Cross responded to the scene and will provide accommodations for a total of seven displaced adults from both houses.
PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of this fire is still under investigation, but appears to have started in the area of the two-car garage. Investigators haven't determined whether the fire started inside or outside of the garage.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The overall dollar loss, including four structures and four vehicles, will likely exceed $60,000.
DOLLAR LOSS: 60,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 28
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Brian Schaeffer, Assistant Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 6/20/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 601 East Francis Avenue
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99208

NARRATIVE: On Wednesday, June 20, 2007 at 2:33 AM, 10 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 4 Engines, 1 Heavy Rescue, 2 Ladders under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Dan Brown and Bruce Moline responded to a commercial structure fire at 601 East Francis Avenue.

Firefighters were initially dispatched to cell phone report of black smoke coming from the roof of the Teriyaki Plus Restaurant. While enroute, a Spokane Police Officer relayed to our dispatch that there was a working fire in the building.

When the first company arrived they encountered a single story strip mall with approximately four businesses located in it. There was an intense fire in the far west business and the fire was progressively consuming the interior contents and moving quickly east towards the remaining businesses. The alarm was immediately upgraded to include the resources mentioned. After forcing entry on several security doors, crews stretched multiple handlines and were able to access the burning business and begin an aggressive attack on the fire while simultaneously searching for possible victims. Concurrently, vertical ventilation from ladder companies aided to prevent the fire from traveling to other businesses in the attic and cockloft spaces.

It took 30 Firefighters just 45 minutes to knock down the fire and control the incident. Firefighters were able to contain the spread of fire to the business of origin and limit additional damage to the adjoining businesses from smoke and products of combustion. No civilians or firefighters were injured as a result of the incident.

*Media- real-time digital dash video from this incident is available from Spokane 20's command unit. It is in DVD format and can be accessed by contacting Dean Pearcy at Media Services 625-7036

PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of this incident is under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department. Investigators are still on-scene conducting interviews, examining physical evidence and assisting the business owners as much as we can.
DAMAGE EXTENT: A damage assessment is expected this afternoon and we will follow up with that information as it becomes available. There are multiple agencies assisting the businesses including; Department of Health, Avista, the SFD and other family and friends.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 30
MUTUAL AID: None Given

MSNBC Story and Slideshow on Charleston Fire Tragedy...

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Ken Kirsch/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 6/12/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1603 W Shannon


NARRATIVE: On 06/12/07 at approximately 1745 hrs units of the City of Spokane Fire Department responded to 1603 W. Shannon upon report of a structure fire. First arriving firefighters found heavy smoke coming from the rear of a 1 ½ story, wood-frame residence. Fire crews advanced pre-connected hose-lines to the 1st floor fire area and extinguished the main body of the fire. At the same time other fire department members advanced to the second floor of the structure to check for possible fire extension to that floor and the attic. The fire did extend into the attic area of the residence and ventilation of the roof was necessary to confine the advancing blaze. Extinguishment of the fire was achieved within approximately 30 minutes with overhaul of the structure continuing for anther 90 minutes. A total of 9 trucks with 27 firefighters fought this blaze. No injuries to either firefighters or civilians were reported. Two tenants occupied the residence. One was home just prior to the fire. That tenant had left to go to the store and when he returned a short time later he discovered the fire in the rear of the structure.

Two adult males were displaced by the fire. One lived on the first floor while the other lived on the second. The Red Cross was working with each to assure they had a place to stay tonight.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The fire is currently under investigation. No cause has been determined.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Damage was confined to the 1st, 2nd, and attics areas of the home. Greatest damage was to the south most portion of the residence, although smoke damage was evident throughout. The residence will not be able to be occupied until extensive repairs are made. The total dollar loss is approximately $40,000 or more.
DOLLAR LOSS: 40,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 27
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Dan Brown
DATE OF INCIDENT: 6/11/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 544 East Glass
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99207

NARRATIVE: At 6:24 on June the 11th the City of Spokane Fire Department responded to 544 East Glass for a reported house fire. Upon arrival Engine 2 reported light smoke showing from the front door. The occuptants of the home were outside and told the firefighters that the fire was in the kitchen. An attack lead was advanced to the interior and the fire was extinguished. A search of the residence was completed. The fire was confined to the kitchen and smoke throughout. The cause was unattended grease on stove which ignited. No injuries were reported. Overhaul was completed and all apparatus were in service at 7: 08pm.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Cooking Fire. Unattented grease on stove
DAMAGE EXTENT: Kitchen and smoke through out.
DOLLAR LOSS: 8000.00
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 20
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Shake hands with danger...

A timely safety film about heavy equipment operation. We usually get called out on the aftermath of something like this, but the mechanism of injury is worth looking at. Great soundtrack and production values, at least in the first 3 minutes - that's all I could take.

Role of Fire Departments in Impending Bird Flu Crisis...

Yes, they are still trying to scare us with the bird flu. What's the role they have in mind for SFD? You might be surprised...

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Bruce Moline/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 6/3/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1822 W. Gardner
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: On 6/3/07 at 8:01 P.M. units of the Spokane Fire Department responded to a report of a structure fire at 1822 W. Gardner. First arriving fire crews found a one and a half story wood framed home converted to apartments with smoke coming from the front eaves and windows. There were separate homes on each side of this building that were extremely close which caused great concern for firefighters as the fire could have easily spread to these homes. Firefighters then rapidly stretched hose lines and used axes and chainsaws to ventilate the roof above for the purpose of confining the fire. At the same time a search effort was coordinated to make sure everyone was out of the involved apartments. The fire was contained after approximately 15 minutes and both homes that were near the fire were spared. It was confirmed later that this building has been vacant for 2 months. A total of 24 firefighters on 7 apparatus responded on this blaze. The temperature at the time of this fire was 95 degrees and this extreme heat can take a toll on firefighters rather quickly. Firefighter's protective clothing is heavy as is the breathing tanks that they wear. Add to this ambient heat from the weather, heat from the fire and arduous work and you have a large potential for heat related injuries. At this fire an additional crew was called in to provide for increased relief needs. There were no injuries to firefighters or civilians. Fire crews remained at the fire for 2 hours performing cleanup and making sure "hotspots" were completely extinguished. An SFD investigator has determined this fire to be arson in nature as a melted plastic gasoline container was found on the wooden steps leading down to the basement. SFD investigators will continue to work on this incident and the public is urged to call the investigation division at 625-7052 if they either witnessed any suspicious activity or have information concerning this fire.
PROBABLE CAUSE: This fire was determined to be arson.
DAMAGE EXTENT: One apartment unit received heavy fire damage and another received moderate fire damage. All units received smoke damage and the basement received some minor water damage.
DOLLAR LOSS: 30,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 24
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Craig Cornelius, Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 6/3/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 617 E. 3rd Ave.
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: On June 3, 2007 the Spokane Fire Communications Center received several calls into their center with reports of a commercial building on fire at 3rd and Hatch. Callers stated that the building's roof was heavily involved in fire. The center dispatched 8 fire apparatus to this location a little after 04:13 hours. Fire crews reported heavy smoke and flames visible shortly after leaving the station. The first fire engine and ladder from Station 1 were on the scene within 5 minutes from the initial call. Officers on the arriving engines reported heavy fire involvement in what appeared to be a vacant structure set back from the NW corner at 3rd and Hatch. The fire crews quickly attacked the fire while later arriving crews set up to protect the surrounding exposures.

The fire's twenty foot flames were encroaching upon the high power electrical lines running directly behind the building. These power lines are energized from an adjacent "Electrical Sub Station" and supply a good deal of the power for the downtown area. The fire crew's quick actions prevented fire damage to the electrical lines.

The vacant building sustained heavy fire damage and will be a total loss. There was no fire damage to the surrounding structures. No injuries were reported from firefighters or civilians. The fire cause for this incident is still under investigation.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Still under investigation
DAMAGE EXTENT: Total loss to vacant structure
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 28
MUTUAL AID: None Given

An invitation to Local Businesses

We are hosting an event in June which should be very good for Spokane businesses, especially those Downtown. Local 29 is hosting the 2007 Washington State Council of Firefighters Convention at the Davenport Hotel the last week of June. There should be over 500 people coming to Spokane for this convention. A lot of money is spent at these events, and the firefighters and their families will be looking for ways to have fun and enjoy our fantastic Downtown.

We are putting together registration packets for the delegates. In these packets, if businesses would like to put coupons or other incentives to visit their businesses, we would be happy to include them. Also, for a small charge, local businesses can have a vinyl banner advertisement placed in the vendor area. The contact person for interested businesses is Thad Frater - 922-3518.

WISH LIST?

Been talking to some folks who say that 1. What they asked to be put on the "Wish List" is not one of the online choices of the "Wish List," or 2. They were never asked what they wanted at all. So here is an unofficial chance to let your muffled voices be heard. Crying towels, pet insurance or riding crops for Class A's. Whatever. Hit comment. You can remain anonymous, if you like. Just remember, it just isn't us reading this, so if it's something too risque - like Speedos for Water Rescue, I probably won't post it. Thanks. Let's do this thing.

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Dan Brown
DATE OF INCIDENT: 5/22/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 161 South Adams
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: O May 22nd at 4:00 pm the City of Spokane Fire Department responded to 161South Adams for a reported building fire. Upon arrival it was reported that smoke was coming from the roof of the 4 story Borning building. The fire was confined to a stack of lumber on the roof next to an elevator house. .The fire attack lead was lowered from the roof to an engine and the fire was quickly extinguished. Additional leads were advanced from the street level to the 2nd and 3rd floors. The Building is under renovation and will be low income housing when completed. Damage was confined to the material on the roof. The cause was determined to be a pinched electrical cord. 30 firefighters and 2 command personnel responded to this incident. No injuries were reported.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Electrical
DAMAGE EXTENT: Stack of Lumber on roof.
DOLLAR LOSS: 1,000.00
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 32
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Bruce Moline/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 5/22/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 5707 N. Freya
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99207

NARRATIVE: On 5/22/07 at 8:20 A.M. the Spokane Fire Department sent 3 engine companies, one pumper ladder company, one ladder company and two battalion chiefs to a fire inside the Safeway warehouse located at 5707 N. Freya. The first in fire crew discovered a fire in the kitchen that was mostly extinguished by a sprinkler head that had activated. Crews examined an exhaust fan that was nearby for any signs of fire extension and found none. There were a total of 19 firefighters that responded on this fire but most crews were turned back quickly as the fire was kept small by the operating sprinkler system. The fire was caused by someone who had set a cardboard box full of paper towels on top of the stove in the kitchen. A burner on the stove was in the "On" position. It is not clear at this time why this burner had been activated and the situation is still under investigation. Fire damage was kept to a minimum and the business will continue to operate. Some minor water damage did occur from the sprinkler. Fire crews remained on scene for approximately one hour afterward, to assist with water and debris cleanup.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Improperly placed combustibles on top of a heating element.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Some minor damage was sustained to the ceiling above the stove from the fire. There was also some minor water damage to contents from the activated sprinkler head.
DOLLAR LOSS: 200.00
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 19
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Wish List...

The wish list for negotiations is now up on the Local 29 website. These instructions from Mike B:

"Our negotiations wish list polling site is now open. Go to www.local29.org. Go to the Negotiations section under the Member Resources. All Local 29 members choose 5 of the wish list items. Prevention and Dispatch choose 1 in your wish list section in addition to your other 5 choices. BE SURE TO TYPE IN YOUR FULL NAME IN THE BOX AT THE BOTTOM OF THE FORM, THEN SUBMIT.

We will count these votes on May 29th and post the results to the web site. Please vote as soon as possible and if you know someone that is off, please let them know to vote."



I haven't checked to see if the perrenial favorites - "crying towels" and "riding crops for class A's" are among the choices...

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Dan Brown
DATE OF INCIDENT: 5/18/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 3606 South MT.Veron
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wash
ZIP: 99206

NARRATIVE: On May 18th at 12:55 the City of Spokane Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 37th and Mt. Vernon. The first arriving company reported a one story frame wood structure at 3606 Mt.Vernon with fire showing from the back side. The fire crews advanced attack leads into the structure and completed a search, no one was found inside. Fire spread from the back of the home into the first and second floors and into the attic. Roof crews ventilated the roof to release heat and smoke. The fire was extinguished in about 30 minutes and overhaul took 2 hours to complete. It was reported that this was a duplex and that was incorrect, this was a large house with a small apartment attached. One firefighter was released from duty and sent to a local hospital to be checked out. He was hit from falling debris. The house suffered extensive damage to interior attic and roof. Twenty firefighters and two command personnel responded to this fire. The fire is under investigation.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Under investigation
DAMAGE EXTENT: Back of house, interior attic and roof
DOLLAR LOSS: 80,000.00
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 22
MUTUAL AID: None Given

WSCFF Golf Tournament at Indian Canyon....

Check out the new Local 29 website!

Make sure you register. Then you can take part in union surveys and read the newsletter and other good stuff. Speaking of the newsletter, I am still waiting for one person's article and then I can put together May's WORKER. I think I can almost smell a combined May/June issue.

John

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Mike Inman Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 5/10/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 615 N. Cannon
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: At 1:57 am May 10, 2007 the Spokane Fire Department responded to a report of a structure with fire in the back. Upon arrival at the intersection of College and Cannon a 1 and ½ story house was found to have significant fire involvement on the outside of the house in the rear. It appeared the fire had extended into the interior of the structure and into the attic so the fire was upgraded to a working fire. 2 Ladder companies, 3 Engines, a Pumper Ladder, a Rescue unit and 2 Battalion Chiefs for a total of 26 Firefighters made an aggressive interior and exterior attack on the fire and brought it under control in about 20 minutes. There is extensive damage to the backdoor area and part of the attic and roof of the house. Fire crews spent an hour checking walls and ceilings for extension. There are no reported injuries, the house was vacant, and the fire is under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department. A crew remained on scene after the fire was extinguished to make sure that all hidden fire in knee walls and voids was completely out.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Undetermined at this time. It is under investigation
DAMAGE EXTENT: Extensive to the backdoor area of the house some inside walls and part of the attic. Smoke damage throughout the vacant house
DOLLAR LOSS: 25,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 26
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Dan Brown
DATE OF INCIDENT: 5/6/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 808 East Montgomery Ave
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP: 99207

NARRATIVE: On May 6th 2007 at 2107 hrs L2 was sent to 808 East Montgomery for a small grass fire next to a house. L2 arrived at 2011 hrs to discover a fire inside the basement on the back porch and had extended to the first floor of a full 2 story house. A full alarm was turned in and several more apparatus responded. Entry had to be force through an outside basement door and the back door leading to the kitchen. Attack leads were advanced to the basement and the kitchen. The fire had burned a large portion of the basement, up the outside wall and into the kitchen; Aggressive firefighting prevented the fire from causing further damage to the home. Extensive overhaul was needed to extinguish and cut off the travel of the fire, this took about 40 minutes. The house was searched no one was home.
No injuries were reported.
The cause of the fire was accidental, hot embers were swept from the patio and placed into a garbage can which caused the contents to ignited and started the house on fire.
Damage was confined to the kitchen, outside wall, basement and smoke throughout the home.
6 fire apparatus 21 firefighters and one command officer worked this fire.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Accidental
DAMAGE EXTENT: Basement, kitchen, outside wall and smoke throughout
DOLLAR LOSS: 35,000.00
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 22
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Dan Brown
DATE OF INCIDENT: 5/6/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 4004 East 2nd AVE
CITY: Spokane
STATE: wa
ZIP: 99212

NARRATIVE: At 2:40 PM on Sunday May 6th 2007 the City of Spokane Fire Department responded to a reported fire in a detached garage at 4004 East 2nd Ave. This garage was being used as a residence. The first fire company arrived at 2:45 PM to report heavy smoke coming from the building. It was reported that there was someone in side. A search was conducted along with an aggressive fie attack, this resulted in a quick knock down of the fire. No one was found inside and no injuries were reported. The interior was a total loss. One adult male was displaced and is being assisted by the Red Cross.
A total of 17 firefighters and one command officer responded. This fire is undetermined pending further investigating.


PROBABLE CAUSE: Undetermined
DAMAGE EXTENT: Total loss interior.
DOLLAR LOSS: 10,000.00
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 18
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Local 29 Press Release on Latah Valley Station

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 1, 2007



Contact: Brad Stark

Spokane City Councilmember

(509) 218-3843



**********************************************

COUNCIL MEMBERS & COMMUNITY,

PUBLIC SAFETY LEADERS TO ANNOUNCE

MAJOR PUBLIC SAFETY INITIATIVE

New Fire Service to Eliminate Deadly Response Times

**********************************************



Spokane City Council Members Brad Stark and Al French along with Fire Dept. Lt. Greg Borg and others will formally announce and unveil plans to construct a new and much needed fire station in the Latah Valley.



The many thousands of residents who live in the Latah Valley are in imminent risk as medical and fire response times are currently double the acceptable national standard as well as nearly double the response times in other parts of the city. Response times for much of this area clock in at over 12 minutes as the nearest fire station is Station 4 located in downtown Spokane. The average 2006 citywide medical response time for the Spokane Fire Department was 6 minutes and 27 seconds.



The press conference to unveil the public safety initiative and detail the financing plan will be held on Wednesday, May 2nd at 2:00 p.m. at the intersection of Bernard & High Drive.

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Bruce Moline/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 4/29/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2019 W. Boone
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: On 4/29/07 at 12:09 A.M. units of the Spokane Fire Department responded on a report of a structure fire at 2019 W. Boone. First arriving fire crews found a two story wood framed home with fire traveling up the outside of the building and spreading to another home next door. Both homes were occupied and firefighters had to force entry through a door in order to find and remove a tenant that remained inside. There were two occupants inside the neighboring home and they safely exited on their own. Firefighters rapidly stretched hose lines and used axes and chainsaws to ventilate the roof above for the purpose of confining the fire. At the same time a search effort was coordinated to make sure everyone was out of the involved homes. Fire crews achieved a "knock down" of the fire after approximately 15 minutes. After the fire was contained, crews then began to search out the entire area of involvement for hidden embers and this effort included more cutting with saws and digging to make sure the fire was completely extinguished. A "fire watch" engine crew remained on the scene into the early morning hours. A total of 21 firefighters on 6 apparatus responded on this blaze. There were no injuries to firefighters or civilians. The Red Cross arrived to assist the displaced tenant and made arrangements for her lodging. An SFD investigator reported to this incident and at this time, the fire has been determined to be arson. It appears that a fire was set in a pile of roofing material that was on the ground and next to the house. SFD investigators will continue to work on this incident and the public is urged to call the investigation division at either 625-7052 or 625-7053 if they either witnessed any suspicious activity or have information concerning this fire.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Arson.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Two dwellings were damaged in this fire. The first home at 2019 W. Boone received heavy damage to the wood exterior, structural framing memebers, walls and roof. The second home sustained heavy damage to the exterior vinyl siding.
DOLLAR LOSS: 40,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 21
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Craig Cornelius
DATE OF INCIDENT: 4/22/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 704 S. Arthur
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99202

NARRATIVE: This afternoon, Sunday, April 22, 2007 at 1712 hours, the Spokane Fire Department dispatched fire apparatus to a reported house fire at 704 S. Arthur St. Fire Dispatchers reported to the responding fire crews that the callers were not sure if everyone was out of the burning structure.

The first arriving fire crew, Engine 7 arrived at the scene within 4 minutes of their dispatch. The Engine's Captain reported heavy smoke coming from the entire front of a two story wood frame residential home/duplex. It was still uncertain if there was anyone inside the structure. Engine 7's crew immediately advanced a hose line, attacking the fire inside the first floor of the large 2 story duplex. They passed command to Ladder 1 and requested that the next arriving crews perform an immediate search of the home/duplex for occupants.

Ladder 1's company officer assigned crews to search and ventilate the structure. The interior fire crews were reporting fire in the basement, first and second floors and in all areas of the attic. An aggressive fire attack was made in all these areas, while search crews continued to look for occupants.

The duplex was found to be unoccupied and the fire was brought under control within 25 minutes. However, crews continued to dig out hidden fire for the next 2 hours. 7 fire apparatus and 26 firefighters responded and were used in the first 2 hours of this incident. No injuries were reported from civilians or firefighters. Fire crews will be on the scene throughout the night in order to make sure the fire is out.

The design and remodeled areas of the duplex provided additional challenges for final extinguishment of this fire. Many of the interior walls and the entire ceiling area on the second floor had to be opened to gain access to the burning fire. A good portion of the roof also had to be removed by hand as fire had progressed between several layers of roofing.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The fire cause is under investigation at this time. The official pronouncement will be made by investigators after all evidence and interviews have been reviewed.


DAMAGE EXTENT: As stated earlier, there was extensive fire damage throughout the entire duplex, more than likely leading to a total loss.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 26
MUTUAL AID: None Given

BLOOMSDAY!!!

'07 Spokane Firefighters Bloomsday Water station

Sun May 6th

Broadway and Nettleton

set up begins at 7:30

everyone gets a T-shirt qualifies for a 1/4 point coffee & coco provided
Bring a leaf rake and light weight snow shovel with you

If your not on duty or running/walking in Bloomsday consider coming to help out
any questions - give me a call

Thad
sta 13-D

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Ken Kirsch/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 4/13/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 528 W. Mansfield
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: On Friday, 04/13/07, at approximately 1619 hrs units of the City of Spokane Fire Department responded to 528 W. Mansfield upon report of a structure fire. While SFD crews were still en-route additional information became available that the fire had spread from one detached garage to a second garage to the east. First arriving crews on the scene advanced pre-connected hose-lines into both garages. The first garage now totally involved and the second with the roof and exterior siding on fire. Fire crews were able to extinguish both fires within approximately 15 minutes. No other structures in the area were damaged by the fire. The first garage was a total loss. A car within the garage was also consumed by the fire. The second garage had significant damage to the roof, exterior siding on one side, and some interior structural damage. SFD members spent additional time conducting overhaul operations to assure the fire was extinguished.

A total of 22 firefighters on 8 fire apparatus responded to this blaze. No injuries were reported to either firefighters or civilians.


PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire is currently undetermined and under investigation. At the time of this medial release fire investigators were still working on the fire scene.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Two detached garages were damaged in this incident. The first garage was a total loss and was located behind the residence at 528 W. Mansfield. The garage situated just east of the first garage had damage to the exterior siding, roof and some interior damage. No other structures were damaged in this incident.
DOLLAR LOSS: 20,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 22
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Brian Schaeffer, Assistant Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 4/12/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 3704 E Crown Avenue
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99207

NARRATIVE: On Thursday, April 12, 2007 at 3:13 PM, 7 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 1 heavy rescue, 1 senior ladder, 4 Engines and 1 Battalion Chief, under the direction of Battalion Chief Bob Hanna responded to a residential structure fire at 3704 E Crown Avenue.

The first company was on-scene in less than five minutes and immediately encountered a 1-story, single family home with smoke showing from all areas of the roof. Using handlines, Firefighters were able to force access to the burning home and begin to aggressively attack the fire. Search and rescue efforts were commenced immediately as initial reports indicated the homeowners may be present. Searches revealed an empty home. Firefighters confined the fire to the area of origin within 20 minutes. No firefighters or civilians were injured in this incident.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of this incident is under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department Investigators. More information will be passed along as it becomes available.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The rear and attic of the structure has moderate damage. The electrical system has been placed out-of-service by the SFD and occupancy will not be permitted.
DOLLAR LOSS: 20000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 23
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Brian Schaeffer, Assistant Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 4/3/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1625 East Pacific Avenue
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99203

NARRATIVE: On Tuesday, April 3, 2007 at 7:19:44 PM, 8 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 1 heavy rescue, 1 senior ladder, 5 Engines and 1 Battalion Chief, under the direction of Battalion Chief Steve Sabo responded to a structure fire at 1625 East Pacific Avenue.

The first company was on-scene in less than two minutes and immediately encountered a 1-story triplex apartment building heavily involved with smoke and fire in apartment 'A'. Using handlines, Firefighters were able to access the burning structure and begin to aggressively attack the fire.

Search and rescue efforts were commenced immediately, evacuating safely from the structure several residents from adjoining apartments. Under fire conditions Ladder 1's search team located an unconscious resident in the rear apartment A. The victim was immediately removed to the exterior where waiting SFD Paramedics immediately began life saving measures. The patient, Karen Eutsler, was transported to Deaconess Medical Center where she succumbed to her injuries and died this evening.

The quick action and front-loaded response from SFD was a large contributing factor in the remaining occupants successful exit without injury. Firefighters confined the fire to the structure of origin, fully extinguishing the flames in just 20 minutes. No firefighters or other civilians were injured in this incident.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of this incident is under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department. At the time of this release, investigators are still on-scene conducting interviews and examining physical evidence.
DAMAGE EXTENT: As a result of the initial company's firefighting efforts, the remaining two apartments were undamaged and are able to reoccupy tonight. Apartment 'A' is uninhabitable and sustained significant structural damage.
DOLLAR LOSS: 60,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 25
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Brian Schaeffer, Assistant Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 3/30/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 10101 North Nevada
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99208

NARRATIVE: On Friday, March 30, 2007 at 2:33 AM, 8 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 6 Engines, 1 Heavy Rescue, 2 Ladders under the direction of Battalion Chief Craig Cornelius responded to a commercial structure fire at 10101 North Nevada in the Golds Gym Complex.

First arriving Firefighters were initially dispatched to an automatic alarm at the address. When the first company arrived they encountered a multiple story office/gym complex with a working fire on the second floor of the Essence Spa. The alarm was immediately upgraded to include the resources mentioned. After forcing entry on several security doors, crews stretched multiple handlines and were able to access the burning structure and begin an aggressive attack on the fire. Positive pressure ventilation and the removal of windows was necessary to remove heat and products of combustion from upper floors and the large space on the first floor. It took 30 Firefighters just 30 minutes to knock down the fire and control the incident. Firefighters were able to limit the spead of fire from the unit of origin and prevent additional damage to the adjoining buildings. No civilians or firefighters were injured as a result of the incident.
PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of this incident is under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department. Investigators are on-scene conducting interviews and examining physical evidence.
DAMAGE EXTENT: At the time of this release, firefighting efforts have ceased, however companies will be on scene most of the afternoon performing salvage, overhaul and assisting the Fire Investigators. Damage to the second and first floor of the Essence Spa is considerable. A damage assessment is expected this afternoon and we will follow up with that information as it becomes available.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 30
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Dan Brown
DATE OF INCIDENT: 3/25/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1412 West Cora CT.
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99205

NARRATIVE: On the evening of March 24th 2007 at 23:50 hrs the City of Spokane Fire Department responded to 1412 West Cora Ct. for a reported house fire. The first Engine company arrived at 23:55 hrs and was met by the tenant who said that the fire was out. Upon further investigation the engine officer found flames showing in the kitchen. An attack lead was advanced and the fire was extinguished. A search showed that no one else was in the residence. The fire was caused by an unattended pan of grease on the stove. The tenant was awakened by his neighbor who used a fire extinguisher to subdue the flames, at this time everyone evacuated the Duplex. There was a working smoke alarm activated at the time the Fire Department arrived. The fire was confined to the kitchen and smoke damage troughout the main floor. No injuries were reported.
Eighteen Firefighters and two command personnel responded to this alarm.


PROBABLE CAUSE: Unattended Pan of grease on stove
DAMAGE EXTENT: Kitchen area and smoke throughout the main floor
DOLLAR LOSS: 20,000.00
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 20
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Newsweek article on firefighters and heart disease....

Zam's Retirement Party

COME SAY “GOODBYE” TO CAPTAIN MIKE “ZAM” ZAMBRYSKI

Where: Spokane Fire Department Training Center -1618 N. Rebecca
When: Friday, March 30 - 1:00-4:00 pm - Refreshments Provided

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Bob Green
DATE OF INCIDENT: 3/15/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1917 W. Dean
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: The City of Spokane Fire Dept. responded firefighting crews and apparatus to 1917 W Dean on a report of a structure fire at that address at 12:50 AM in the early morning of Thursday, March 15, 2007. The first arriving fire crew reported heavy smoke emanating from the vacant structure with flames visible at a basement window. That crew immediately forced entrance through the rear door of the structure and advanced a hose lead into the interior where they were able to cut off the fire's spread and extinguish it very quickly. Other fire crews assisted in ventilating the toxic smoke products from the building while still other crews cut holes into and removed siding from the exterior walls to insure the fire had not spread. There were no reports of injuries to any of the firefighters at the scene. The damage was confined to a small area of the basement, the basement stairs, and some damage to the exterior walls and basement window. 23 firefighters responded to this fire call on 6 pieces of fire equipment and 2 Command vehicles. The cause of this fire is currently under investigation by Fire Dept. Officials. The quick response by an alert neighbor in calling 9-1-1 was a contributing factor in the Fire Dept.'s timely arrival and rapid knock down of this particular fire.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Under investigation.
DAMAGE EXTENT: A small area of the basement, the stairs leading down into the basement, and some of the exterior siding near a burned out basement window.
DOLLAR LOSS: 5,000.00
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 23
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Ken Kirsch/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 3/8/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 3923 E Pratt
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: On 03/08/07 at approximately 1157 hrs units of the City of Spokane Fire Department responded to 3923 E Pratt upon report of a structure fire. The first arriving unit on the scene found heavy smoke coming from a one story, wood-frame, single-family residence. Smoke was evident from the eaves, front door, and chimney areas of the structure. E-7 crew members advanced a pre-connected hose-line in the front door of the structure and found fire advancing up the stairway from the basement. Fire crews continued to fight their way down the stairs and extinguished the main body of fire in the northwest portion of the basement. Other assignments completed during this fire incident included crews advancing a back-up lead to protect E-7 crew members, firefighters ventilating the basement and first floors of the residence, search of the first floor and basement areas for possible life hazards, and the check of areas of the first floor for extension of fire. No extension of fire was found on the first floor.

A total of 23 firefighters on 9 apparatus battled this blaze. No injuries to either firefighters or civilians were reported. The main body of fire was extinguished within approximately 20 minutes with crews remaining on scene for approximately 2 more hours to assure extinguishment. Fire damage was confined mainly to the basement area of the residence, with smoke damage evident to both the basement and first floors.


PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire is undetermined at this time. Fire investigators are still analyzing the scene, and information surrounding the incident. For more information on the cause of this fire contact Capt. Mike Zambryski at 625-7052 during normal business hours.
DAMAGE EXTENT: A family of five occupied the residence. The fire was discovered by one of the young adults occupying the home. The main body of fire, at the time of discovery, was in the north-west portion of the basement. This is an area containing a hot water heater, softer water unit, the electrical panel for the residence, among other items.

DOLLAR LOSS: 75,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 23
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Great Pictures from the Columbia Stairclimb!

Click the title above to see some great pictures of the Columbia Stairclimbin' Spokane Firefighters! Thanks to Jennifer, Jesse's wife, for the fine work. Also, if anyone in the media is interested in these pictures, here's what Jen has to say:

As you may know, On March 4th, 2007 in the Columbia Center in Seattle Washington, was the Scott Firefighter Stairclimb.
As a Washington State photographer I was allowed access to the event.
If you are interested in licensing any of these photos, please contact me.
Jennifer Raudebaugh
jennjess99@comcast.net

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Bruce Moline/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 3/4/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 611 E. Gordon
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99207

NARRATIVE: On 3/3/07 at 10:22 P.M. the Spokane Fire Department responded 6 fire companies and 2 battalion chiefs to a reported garage fire at 611 E. Gordon. Upon arrival, fire crews found a detached garage behind a residence with significant fire showing from inside. Fire crews immediately attacked the fire with hose lines and at the same time, protected nearby structures, conducted search operations inside the garage looking for anybody that could be inside, coordinated water supply, assembled backup crews and provided ventilation to let the hot smoke and fire out in order for crews to get inside the garage quicker. The fire was successfully contained and controlled in 20 minutes. On scene examination and interviews with the homeowner revealed that the cause was improperly discarded hot ashes from a wood stove that were placed inside a cardboard box inside the garage. The garage sustained major damage and a significant amount of contents being stored inside the garage also received major damage. Fire crews were busy for over two hours conducting "overhaul" operations which is the phase of the fire where every hot spot, ember, or visible smoke is investigated and extinguished. This often is a very arduous task because crews have to tear apart walls and ceilings to get to the source of the heat. Thermal infrared heat cameras were used to help accomplish this task. The incident was turned back over to the homeowner at 12:45 A.M. There were no injuries to firefighters or civilians at this incident. The Spokane Fire Department would like to take this opportunity to remind everyone that ashes can often appear to be out. However, they can hold in heat for a long period of time and must be dealt with in a safe manner by placing them in a non-combustible container and removing the container from other nearby combustibles.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Improperly discarded hot ashes from a wood stove. The ashes were placed inside a cardboard box inside the garage.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Major heat damage to the metal clad wood frame garage structure. Major heat and smoke damage to a large amount of contents inside the garage. Contents included personal items and a gas fired heater.
DOLLAR LOSS: 50,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 22
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Mayor Hession's memo re: fully staffing Stn 15...

Interesting that the newspaper says "hiring an additional 4 firefighters," instead of "bringing back 4 of the 53 positions lost due to the layoffs." Also, there's never a mention that Hillyard, before the layoffs, had 6 firefighters dedicated to its protection, whereas there are now only 3.

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Mike Inman, Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 3/2/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1730 W. 26th
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99204

NARRATIVE: At 11:48 pm on Wednesday March 1, 2007 the Spokane Fire Department was dispatched to a reported fire in a 26 foot Air Stream trailer at 1730 W. 26th. The owner states that the trailer blew up and the Fire Department found the trailer fully involved upon arrival. A Fire Investigator was called due to a suspicious fire across the street in a vacant mobile home the previous week. Currently the fire is under investigation. 23 Firefighters responded on 3 Engines, 2 Ladder trucks, 1 Rescue truck and 2 Battalion Chiefs which is a normal 1st alarm assignment for this area of Spokane. There were no injuries or deaths of Firefighters or civilians. If anyone has information regarding this fire please call the Spokane Fire Department and request Captain Smathers or Lieutenant Greg McLatchey
PROBABLE CAUSE: Under investigation
DAMAGE EXTENT: Total loss on the 26 foot Air Stream trailer. Minimal amount of burn damage to the house and the fence on either side of the trailer.
DOLLAR LOSS: 20,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 23
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Deputy Chief Leavenworth
DATE OF INCIDENT: 2/26/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 506 W Sinto
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99017

NARRATIVE: On February 24, 2007 at approximately 0825 hours the Spokane Fire Department responded 11 fire apparatus and 31 personnel to a reported structure fire at the Margo Apartments located at 506 W Sinto. Upon arrival fire companies reported heavy smoke and fire issuing from the windows of a second floor apartment. Crews rapidly began search and rescue operations in an attempt to locate any residents unable to escape the structure. Simultaneously crews advanced pre-connected hose lines to the second floor to extinguish the fire in apartment #7. Crews also began to ventilate the hot smoke and gases from the structure to allow firefighters and occupants a safer environment to work in and escape from. The fire was rapidly knocked down and contained to the one apartment. Crews then began to conduct overhaul operations to ensure complete extinguishment of the fire and any hidden hot spots.


One occupant of the building was transported to Deaconess Medical Center for evaluation by emergency room staff for injuries received when she attempted to extinguish the fire prior to the arrival of the fire department. No firefighters were injured in the suppression of this fire.



PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause has been determined to be incendiary. The suspect is 47 yr old Charles Dawkins. He is described as a white male 6'3 210 lbs. He has sandy blonde hair and a mustache. He was last seen wearing a dark blue Seattle Seahawks Jacket. According to the victim, Charles is armed with a knife and is coming down from a methamphetamine high. He is extremely dangerous. Anyone who knows where he is are urged to call 911.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The Red Cross was called to the scene to assist approximately 9 residents of the apartments after the utilities to the building were cut off due to damage from the fire. The Spokane Fire Department would like to take this opportunity to remind citizens to rapidly exit any structure on fire and do not attempt to extinguish the flames or re-enter the structure. Leave the building and contact 911 from a neighbor's home or with a cell phone. The fire apartment was heavily damaged by fire with smoke and water damage throughout most of the structure.

DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 31
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Steve Sabo
DATE OF INCIDENT: 2/23/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 6463 N. Perry St.
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: At 10:08 PM on Thursday, February 22nd, the Spokane Fire Department was dispatched to a reported fire in a commercial building at 6463 N. Perry. Crews arrived to find a single story 30' X 350' building with heavy smoke coming from one of eight businesses occupying the building. There were no occupants in the building at that hour. Fire Department crews forced entry into the fire unit and the adjoining units to advance hoses to extinguish the fire and check for any extension. The fire was quickly extinguished, and crews determined that there was no extension beyond the unit of origin, which was occupied by River City Painting Inc. The fire appeared to start in a company van which was parked inside the building. The van was heavily damaged, but the fire was extinguished before it could extend to another van nearby. There was heavy smoke damage in that business, but the fire did not damage the structure itself. This incident was upgraded to a "working fire" based on the heavy smoke visible on arrival, and the size and occupancy of the building. Four engines, two ladders, one rescue, two battalion chiefs, and an investigator responded to this fire.
PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire is under investigation.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The fire heavily damaged one van, and caused significant smoke damage to the affected business. There was also minor damage to several doors, windows, and the roof due to mitigation efforts.
DOLLAR LOSS: 40,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 25
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Jim Parker asks for your prayers...

Gonzo has received word from Jim that his health is failing him, and he asks that you remember him, and his wife Louise, in your prayers. If you would like to read Jim's letter, email Gonzo and he will pass it on to you.

Thanks, John

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Ken Kirsch/Battatlion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 2/21/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1824 N. Smith
CITY: spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: On 02/20/07, at approximately 1942 hrs. units of the City of Spokane Fire Department responded to 1824 N. Smith upon report of a structure fire. First arriving fire units found heavy smoke coming from a one story, wood-frame, single family residence. The main body of fire was in the basement of the residence, although fire did extend to the first floor directly above. Heat and smoke were trapped in the basement as few openings existed that could be used to ventilated these toxic products. Firefighters extended pre-connected hose-lines to both the basement and first floors of the building to extinguish the fire. At the same time crews were also assigned to the roof of the house in case ventilation of that area was necessary. The fire was brought under control within approximately 20 minutes, with overhaul of the structure continuing for anther 90 minutes or more.

A total of 25 firefighters, on 10 trucks fought this blaze. No injuries to either firefighters or civilians were reported.

PROBABLE CAUSE: At this time the fire is under investigation. Investigators should finish their work early this morning. More information will follow.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Extensive fire and smoke damage is evident throughout the structure. The main body of fire was in the basement, but the fire did extend to the room on the first flood directly above. Smoke damage was also evident throughout the structure.
DOLLAR LOSS: 90,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 25
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Joel Fielder/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 2/16/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2613 West Gardner
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: Today, February 16, 2007, the Spokane Fire Department responded at approximately 4:07 PM to 2613 West Gardner. The first crew on-scene reported smoke and fire showing at the upper floor of a 1-1/2-story, wood framed apartment building. Fire fighters aggressively attacked the fire from the front of the structure while additional fire crews completed search and rescue, roof ventilation and salvage and overhaul. The fire was brought under control within 30 minutes and there were no reported injuries to the occupants or firefighters. Eight fire companies with 26 firefighters responded to this fire and were on scene for approximately 2.5 hours. Four adults and one child were displaced by the fire and are being assisted by the Spokane Chapter of the American Red Cross.

The Spokane Fire Department would like to take this opportunity to state the importance of installing properly working smoke detectors through out your home. The occupants of the apartment on the upper floor did not have smoke detectors and narrowly escaped the fire by climbing out a second floor window.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire is under investigation by Fire Investigator Doug Dodson.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Fire damage was confined to the upper floor apartment with smoke damage through out the rest of the structure.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE:
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Firefighter Stairclimb!

The Firefighter Stairclimb in Seattle is on March 4th. SFD members will be climbing 69 floors in full bunker gear "on air." This event is a fundraiser to benefit the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. If you would like to be a sponsor, or donate, click on the link above or visit www.active.com/donate/ff07/spokanefire.

Kerry calls for investigation of coverup regarding failed PASS Devices in FF deaths...

Komen Eastern Washington Race for the Cure®

From Mike Miller's wife Ruthann:

Komen Eastern Washington Race for the Cure®

Race Date: April 29, 2007 

Dear Friends and Family,

I recently accepted the challenge to raise funds to support the Komen Eastern Washington Race for the Cure® on April 29, 2007 in the fight against breast cancer. One in seven women will be stricken with breast cancer in her lifetime and the more we raise, the more the Eastern Washington Affiliate of the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation can give back to fund vital breast cancer education, screening and treatment programs in our own community and support the national search for a cure.

Click here to visit my personal page and pledge your support.

Please join me in the fight by pledging in support of my participation in the Race or contributing generously to the Komen Eastern Washington Race for the Cure®.  Your tax-deductible contribution will fund innovative outreach and awareness programs for medically underserved communities in Komen Eastern Washington Race for the Cure® and national breast cancer research. It is faster and easier than ever to support this great cause - you can make a donation online by simply clicking on the link at the bottom of this message. If you would prefer, you can also send your tax-deductible contribution to the address listed below. Whatever you can give will help! I truly appreciate your support and will keep you posted on my progress.

Thank you so much for your time and support in the fight against breast cancer! Every step counts!

Sincerely,

Ruthann Miller

To sponsor my participation online, click the title above:

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Steve Sabo
DATE OF INCIDENT: 2/3/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 3808 E. 21st Ave.
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99203

NARRATIVE: This morning, February 3rd, at 0407, the Spokane Fire Department responded to a reported house fire at 3808 E. 21st Ave. The first engine on-scene reported that the two adult occupants were outside, and that there was heavy smoke coming from the basement. The house was a single family split entry structure. The occupants were awakened by their 9 week-old puppy, and escaped as heat and smoke were filling the house. In their haste to escape, the puppy got left behind. Fire crews discovered the puppy during their search and brought it out, scared and smoky, but otherwise uninjured. Crews advanced a hose lead to the basement as other crews performed a secondary victim search, and opened walls upstairs above the fire to check for fire extension. The main body of fire was knocked down within 15 minutes, but crews continued to expose and extinguish fire in the upstairs walls for an additional 30 minutes.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Cause of the fire is still under investigation, but is most likely accidental, originating in the basement utility/furnace room.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Damage to the house was extensive. There was heavy fire damage in a basement utility room, along with heavy smoke and heat damage throughout the structure. The damage is estimated to be $30,000.
DOLLAR LOSS: 30000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 22
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: BC Craig Cornelius
DATE OF INCIDENT: 2/1/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2515 S. Lacey Ct
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: 0n February 1, 2007; at 8:25 pm the Spokane Fire Department responded 7 fire apparatus and 23 firefighters to 2515 S Lacey Ct. The Fire Dispatch Center received a report of a kitchen grease fire in a single family home. Engine 14 arrived on the scene within 4 minutes of dispatch. Crews from Station 14 and Station 11 immediately attacked the fire with pre-connected hose lines. The fire was knocked down within 5 minutes. There were no injuries to civilians or firefighters and the home owners were not displaced. The Fire Department kept 3 apparatus on the scene for close to an hour in order to make sure that the fire that had extended into the attic area was completely out.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Kitchen grease fire.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Kitchen wall and attic area above stove.
DOLLAR LOSS: 15000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 23
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Bob Green
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/27/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2227 W. Sharp
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: Fire fighting crews of the Spokane City Fire Dept. responded to 2227 W Sharp at 3:35 on the morning of Saturday, Jan. 27th for a reported house on fire. A plume of smoke was visible in the morning sky as fire apparatus were approaching the scene. The first crew arrived at the address to find a number of large stored items burning freely in a storage area outside of and to the rear of the residence. That first arriving fire crew rapidly laid an attack lead and were able to get the fire knocked down very quickly, their fast work prevented the fire from doing any serious damage to the interior of the residence and from extending to the neighboring house which was separated from the fire house by only a foot or two. Two wheel chair bound females, a mother and her daughter, were assisted from the house by other fire fighters as the fire was being extinguished. There were no reported injuries to any fire fighters or civilians at the scene. The elderly mother was placed into a waiting ambulance and evaluated by paramedics at the scene. She was later cleared to be able to return to her home after the toxic smoke had been removed. An alert neighbor saw the fire and called 9-1-1 which helped in the rapid response to the scene by fire fighters. Six fire apparatus responded to this incident along with 2 command vehicles. The fire is considered to be suspicious at this time and is being carefully investigated by Fire Dept. officials.
PROBABLE CAUSE: This fire is considered to be suspicious at this time and is being investigated by Fire Dept. Investigators.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Multiple items that were being stored outside of the residence were destroyed or heavily damaged. A window in the house was broken by the heat of the fire and that heat along with the smoke did some minor damage to the interior of the house.
DOLLAR LOSS: 5,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 23
MUTUAL AID: None Given

As seen on the N. Division Eatsa Pizza billboard...

Spokane Firefighter job announcement and link to application...

Click on the link to take you to the city's website. Under the FF job description information is a link to the application.

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Joel Fielder/ Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/23/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1314 East North Avenue
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: Today, January 23, 2007, the Spokane Fire Department responded at approximately 9:10 AM to 1314 East North Avenue. The first crew on-scene reported fire at the back of a 1-story, wood framed duplex extending from a window at the south west corner of the lower apartment. Fire fighters advanced a pre-connected hose line through the apartment to the back bedroom and quickly extinguished the fire. Additional fire crews completed search and rescue, ventilation and salvage and overhaul. The fire was brought under control within 20 minutes and there were no reported injuries to the occupants or firefighters. Nine fire companies with 29 firefighters responded to this fire and were on scene for approximately 2 hours. Two families, consisting of 3 adults and 6 children were displaced by the fire and are being assisted by the Spokane Chapter of the American Red Cross.
PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire is under investigation by Fire Investigator Lt. Greg McClatchey and Captain Kevin Smathers and they may be contacted at 625-7053.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Fire damage was confined to the lower apartment with smoke and heat damage through out the rest of the structure
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 29
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Fire Press Release

SSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Dan Brown
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/22/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 110 South Madison
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: At 12:59 A/M on January the 22, 2007, the City of Spokane Fire Department responded to the Otis Hotel at 110 South Madison for a reported room fire. Station 4 arrived on the scene at 1:02 P/M to discover smoke showing from the 4th floor window. The fire was up graded to a working fire. Water stand pipes were charged and fire attack leads were hooked up to the stand pipe and advanced to the fire room. A search was conducted and the building was evacuated. The fire was extinguished in about ten minutes after crews arrived on the 4th floor. Smoke filled the halls on the 4th floor and had to be removed before the residence was allowed to return. The fire did not get out of the room of origin.
No injuries were reported due to the fire, although the Fire Department Medics attended to separate medical issues on scene. Damage was confined to the room, bed, and bedding. This fire was investigated and was determined to be smoker caused. Thirty Two Firefighters responded along with two command personnel.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Smoker
DAMAGE EXTENT: Room oforigin, Bed , bedding.
DOLLAR LOSS: 3,500.00
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 34
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Bob Green
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/17/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 3402 E Garnet Ave.
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP: 99207

NARRATIVE: The Spokane City Fire Dept. dispatched fire crews to 3402 E Garnet Ave. at 7:27 the evening of Wednesday, Jan. 17th, 2007. Fire crews responding to the scene reported seeing arching electrical wires visible in the night sky from blocks away as they were rapidly approaching the area. Once on scene, the first officer to arrive reported that a split-level 2 story wood/frame dwelling was involved with fire at the rear of the house. The residence had a fiberglass paneled roof over the wooden deck which extended off the 2nd level of the house at the rear through sliders from the kitchen. That deck and the roof over it were heavily involved with fire as the first hose leads were stretched to begin fire extinguishment. While these hose leads were being laid the propane tank for the barbecue, which had been started by the homeowners to grill their dinner, was acting like a blow torch blasting through the fiberglass roof panels and causing fire to be pushed into the attic through the metal vents under the eaves of the house. Fire crews were able to get most of the fire involving the deck and its roof knocked down fairly quickly, however the process of getting to and extinguishing the fire in the attic space over the kitchen took considerable more time and involved a lot of hard work on the part of the fire fighters. The damage to the house was confined to the deck and its roof and the kitchen/dining room area inside sustained considerable damage. Some of the structural members of the trussed roof received severe damage as well. There were no reports of any injuries neither to the fire fighters at the scene nor to the four occupants who were at home at the time of the fire. The electrical power to the house had to be shut off, leaving no way to heat the house until repairs to the damaged electrical circuits can be made. The current cold weather in our area is compounding the problems for the homeowners due to the possibility of water pipes inside the house freezing. The Spokane City Fire Dept. would like to ask all citizens to be extra vigilant of the causes for home fires during this cold snap and with everyone's help and awareness we hope to keep the incidents of fires in our homes to a minimum. Six fire apparatus responded to this fire along with 2 command vehicles and 21 fire fighters. The cause of the fire was determined to be a mechanical failure of either the propane tank or the tubing from the propane tank to the barbecue
PROBABLE CAUSE: Mechanical failure of the propane tank or the tubing carrying the propane from the tank to the barbecue.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The rear deck and its roof, the kitchen/dining area inside the home. Smoke damage throughout the interior of the house.
DOLLAR LOSS: 15,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 21
MUTUAL AID: None Given

PDFs of Leaked Matrix Report...

Fire Department section starts on PDF 8, page 7.

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: BC Craig Cornelius
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/15/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 347 W. Central
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99206

NARRATIVE: This morning, January 15th 2006, at 0400 hours, the Spokane Fire Department received a 911 call for a fire in a home located at 347 W. Central Ave. 23 Fire Fighters responded on 6 apparatus to fight this fire. Arriving crews found a single family residence with fire inside the attic and front living room. The first arriving Officer from St13 made sure that everyone was out of the home and her crew attacked the fire. This fire was brought under control within minutes. The fire consumed portions of the attic and front living room. Smoke damage occurred throughout the home. Fire Fighters were on the scene for about 2 hours digging out the remainder of the fire.

There were no injuries at this incident. The family and their pets should be back in their home in a relatively short amount of time.


PROBABLE CAUSE: Preliminary evidence at this incident suggests the fire was caused by the electrical wiring in the attic. The official pronouncement will be made by investigators after all fire evidence has been reviewed.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Fire damaged the attic and front living room areas of the home.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 23
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Fire Press Release

Hey, Friday January 12th there was a house fire.
It came in at 2307. The address was 2011 N. Howard.
It was confined to the front of the living room.
It probably only took 5-15 gallons of water to put out.
The folks living there were able to get out OK.
A lot of firefighters were there, and many trucks, as well.
The reason the fire started is under investigation.
Firefighters who first arrived saw a front window filled with many flames and much smoke.
I don't know what the damage estimate was, nor how many people were displaced.

There was no SFD administration press release for this, as of 1452 on 13 January. I know some of you readers are keeping track of fires in the city, so here you go.

If you work on a fire that doesn't get reported on this blog, let me know the specifics and I'll get it on here.

The BCs have been doing a great job and a great service giving us these releases through Chief Schaeffer's office. So, this is probably a technical glitch. When I get the real deal, I will replace this posting with it.

John

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Ken Kirsch Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/12/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 118 S Napa
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: On 01/11/07 at approximately 2349 hrs units of the City of Spokane Fire Department responded to 118 S Napa upon report of a structure fire. First arriving units found a one story, wood-frame, single family residence with a small amount of fire burning on the exterior. Crews advanced pre-connected hose-lines to the residence to extinguish the fire, while at the same time other fire department crews were assigned to both the roof and interior of the structure to check for fire extension. Firefighters found that the fire had extended to both the walls and the attic of the structure. After extensive overhaul of those areas the fire was extinguished. The fire was out within approximately 30 minutes with firefighters remaining on scene another hour and a half to overhaul the structure.

A total of 28 firefighters on 11 trucks fought this blaze. No injuries were reported to either firefighters or civilians.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The investigation into the cause of the fire will continue later today. The fire is considered suspicious at this time. A final determination of the fire cause will not be made until the investigation is completed most likely in the next few days.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Damage to the structure included fire damage to the west end of the residence and to the attic area. Smoke damage was evident throughout the structure. The Red Cross was requested to the scene to assist the tenants as they could not stay inhabit the residence after the fire.
DOLLAR LOSS: 30000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 28
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Credit Union Annual Meeting - January 27th!

The annual meeting is January 27th, 2007 at the Red Lion - Inn at the Park. Cocktail hour is 6:00 pm with dinner around 7:15-7:30. After the retirement presentations there will be live music and dancing with "Hot Rod Deluxe".

Tickets are on sale now at the credit union. $15 Members and $25 for guests.

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Dan Brown
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/10/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1225 north Cochran
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99205

NARRATIVE: On the morning of January 10, 2007 the City of Spokane Fire Department responded to 1225 North Cochran to a reported church fire with flames showing. Engine 3 was first to arrive on scene and reported light smoke showing. Further investigation showed that the fire was on the outside of the building and was quickly extinguished. Forcible entry was made. The Church was filled with smoke. All floors were checked from the attic to the basement and there were no extensions to the interior and no one found inside. Overhaul and extinguishment took about one hour. No injuries reported. Six fire apparatus and two command vehicles responded for a total of twenty two firefighters. This fire is under investigation.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Underinvestigation
DAMAGE EXTENT: Outside of building and overhaul interior.
DOLLAR LOSS: 3000.00
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 22
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Q6 Footage of this morning's fire.

They happened to be there and set up to film the fire attack from the beginning.

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Mike Inman Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/8/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1702 W. Dean
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: At 7:04 am on Monday January 8, 2007 the Spokane Fire Department responded to a report of a structure fire at 1702 W. Dean in Spokane Washington. Engine 3 was the first fire apparatus on scene and reported a large volume of fire coming out of the back of the unoccupied two story structure that was a remodeled house. Along with the fire attack crews did a search of the entire building and found nobody inside. Other crews assisted by ventilating the smoke and heat out of the building during the fire attack. A quick knock down of the fire was accomplished with no injuries reported for civilians or Firefighters. The fire was confined to the kitchen and another small room in the back of the building. There was heat and smoke damage to most of the 1st floor and smoke damage to the second floor. The fire is under investigation by the Fire Department investigators.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Under investigation
DAMAGE EXTENT: Extensive damage to the kitchen, another room with heat and smoke damage throughout the 1st floor. Smoke damage to the 2nd floor.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 23
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Election results

Borg 158
Phillips 113

Santa Float Video RIP

Well, the Season is pretty much over. I hope your Christmas and New Year was great!

About a week ago, I was forwarded an email from a member who said that an anonymous citizen complained about our Santa Float video. I was a bit puzzled, as I have received nothing but good comments about the video. I heard from you, Local 29 members, and from total strangers who really enjoyed it. They were very complimentary about the whole operation (again thanks to Stn 8) and they thought the video was funny and family-friendly. It received well over 600 viewings Again, there was nothing but positive feedback, except from this one member.

I offered to meet with the offended member and see if there was more to his offense than this video, or what offended him about it. I offered to meet with the “anonymous citizen.” Yet, my offer went unanswered. The citizen, to this day, remains anonymous. I have only heard through the grapevine that the complaining member was offended by the kazoo music, the musical flatulent noises and that, at times, Santa is wearing a scary clown mask. I don’t know if this is true because this person will not meet with me, or talk to me on the phone.

As the holidays are over, and frankly this is taking up too much of my time, I have decided to block the You Tube feed of the Santa Float video. I apologize to all of you who have been enjoying it. I also apologize to the families who have been enjoying it in Spokane and across the United States of America, but I suspect we’ve all moved on from Christmas. No, I don’t have any Easter videos planned yet.

Maybe a yearly Local 29 Santa Float video on YouTube would be a good idea every Christmas. We received a lot of good PR from this one. So, those of you who are video-inclined be thinking about that for next year.

Thanks for reading the blog and for your words of encouragement!

John

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Ken Kirsch Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/2/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1924 E 1st
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: On 01/02/07 at approximately 0814 hrs units of the Spokane Fire Department responded to 1924 E. 1st upon report of a structure fire. Initial reports were that a trailer to the back of the above referenced address was on fire. First arriving Fire Department units found a trailer and wooden shed heavily involved in fire. The trailer and shed were in close proximity to a residential structure also on the property. Pre-connected hose lines were advanced to the fire area and the main body of fire was extinguished within about 15 minutes. Additional hose lines were positioned to protect other endangered structures including a garage, an adjacent residence, and a fence. A total of 23 firefighters on 9 trucks fought this blaze. Fire crews remained on the scene approximately 90 minutes to extinguish the fire and conduct overhaul operations. No injuries were reported to either firefighters or civilians.
PROBABLE CAUSE: City of Spokane Fire Investigators were requested to the scene to determine the cause of the fire. That investigation is currently on going and an exact cause is not yet known. For more information on the cause of this fire you can contact Mike Zambryski at 625-7052.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The fire was largely confined to a trailer and shed on the east side of this property. A nearby fence and a small portion of the exterior of the residence on the property were also damaged. Total dollar loss is approximately $1000.
DOLLAR LOSS: 1000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 23
MUTUAL AID: None Given