Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Mike Inman / Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 11/24/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 926 E. 8th Ave.
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: At 11:13 am the Spokane Fire Department was called to the Hifumi En (pronounced hi-fu-me in) apartments at 926 E. 8th Ave. in Spokane Washington. A fire was reported in apartment number 111. The first Engine Company on scene reported smoke and fire and initiated the fire attack using a 1 ¾ inch hose line. The initial response of 5 Engines, 1 Ladder truck, 1 Rescue unit and 1 Battalion Chief was supplemented by an additional Engine and Pumper ladder that were requested due to the number of units and potential rescues in this facility. Heavy black smoke and heat were encountered by the crews in the hallways of the 1st floor. Some of the residents had gotten themselves out of the building but fire crews were instrumental in get the rest out of dangerous conditions. The primary focus for the Firefighters was getting the people out. Because of this there were no reported injuries. Many of the residents have special needs and due to the needs of the residents 2 Engine Companies were assigned the job of getting medicines and medical equipment out of the unaffected apartments for the residents. The Spokane Transit Authority sent a bus for the displaced residents to get out of the sub freezing weather. Red Cross was notified of the displaced residents and sent a team to assist where they could. The fire did minimal damage with significant damage to the room of origin and heavy damage in the hallways due to smoke and heat. The fire was determined to be accidental and the building was released back to the housing authority.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Accidental using incense.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Completly destroyed one apartment damaged a second and smoked up all of the hallways.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 30
MUTUAL AID: None Given