Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Steve Sabo
DATE OF INCIDENT: 7/12/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 3016 W. Bismark Ave.
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99205

NARRATIVE: At 2:15 PM today, Thursday, July 12, 2007, the Spokane Fire Department responded to a reported explosion and fire at 3016 W. Bismark Ave. Crews responding reported heavy smoke and flames visible from several blocks away. As crews arrived, they found a one-story single family home, with the attached garage fully involved in fire. The living area of the home was heavily charged with smoke, as was the attic area. Engine crews advanced hose leads into the garage as well as the living area. At the same time, one ladder crew searched the interior for victims, while another cut a hole in the roof for ventilation. There were no victims located, however, two cats were rescued and treated with oxygen at the scene, and a third cat was unaccounted for. The fire was knocked down and under control within 20 minutes. Crews remained on-scene for more than four hours completing final extinguishment. Ambient air temperatures approaching 100 degrees made conditions unusually difficult for firefighters. Extra fire crews from as far away as east central Spokane were brought in to provide relief for the exhausted initial attack crews. Two firefighters were transported to Deaconess Hospital, where they were treated for heat stress and dehydration. They were released and returned to complete the rest of their shift. There were no civilian injuries. The American Red Cross was making arrangements for lodging and clothing for the four family members who lived in the house.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Fire investigators determined the cause of the fire to be an overloaded electrical circuit supplying power to a wall mounted air conditioning unit. The reported explosions were caused by one empty and two partially full propane cylinders.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Damage to the home was extensive. The garage was totally destroyed, and fire heavily damaged the roof and ceiling area of the home nearest the garage. There was smoke and heat damage throughout the remainder of the home. Total damage is estimated at $70,000.
DOLLAR LOSS: 70,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 26
MUTUAL AID: None Given