Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/3/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 38 West 32nd Ave
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP: 99203

NARRATIVE: ON the afternoon of January 3, 2008 the City of Spokane fire department responded 6 fire apparatus and 2 command personnel to 38 West 32 nd Ave for a reported house fire. The first engine company reported a 1 St. Wood frame building with smoke and flame showing from the front window. A quick fire attack was made and the fire was knocked down with in minutes. A search was conducted and no one was found inside. Fire companies were on scene for three hours completing overhaul. The ceiling in the fire room was insulated with a large amount of sawdust which needed to be removed and taken outside. The fire was determined to be accidental, caused by a candle which ignited a Christmas tree. Two young boys' ages nine and ten were home at the time and were able to escape without injury. The fire Department would like to remind the public that any unattended open flame may become an ignition source to combustibles inside a home.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Candle ignited a Christmas tree.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Living room , smoke and heat throughout.
DOLLAR LOSS: 50,000.00
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 19
MUTUAL AID: None Given