Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Steve Sabo
DATE OF INCIDENT: 3/6/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2627 South Southeast Blvd.
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99223

NARRATIVE: At 10:05 this morning, March 6, 2008, the Spokane Fire Department was dispatched to the area of 27th Avenue and Southeast Blvd. for smoke reported in the area. Upon arrival, the first engine investigated and found a 2 ½ story, single family house with smoke issuing from the basement. A full structure alarm was requested, responding four additional engines, a ladder, a rescue truck, and two Battalion Chiefs. Crews forced entry and attacked the fire, while other crews ventilated and searched for victims. The were no occupants home at the time of the fire. The fire was knocked down within ten minutes, but complete overhaul of the burned area took nearly three hours. There was heavy fire and smoke damage to the basement and additional heat and smoke damage to the upper floors. There were no firefighter injuries. The homeowner arrived while crews were still on the scene. The homeowner lives alone, and will be unable to occupy the house until repairs are made. The American Red Cross is assisting him with lodging.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire was determined to be a wood stove in the basement, installed with its chimney too close to a combustible wall surface.
DAMAGE EXTENT: There was heavy fire and smoke damage to the basement and additional heat and smoke damage to the upper floors.
DOLLAR LOSS: 30,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 24
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002

END OF RELEASE

Video from Local 257 Meeting...

It looks like their meetings are a little more lively, but not as well attended.

KXLY Report on Todd's work to clear his name...

Thanks to Dean Carr for sending this information. If I read this correctly, they are "letting" Todd have a computer image of his hard drive, but only if he promises not to tell anyone what his investigator does/does not find on it.

Incredible! Is that legal?

And the way the story now reads on the KXLY post, Todd's home was searched one day and he was arrested the next! Wasn't Todd arrested first and then his home searched? This revision falls perfectly into line with the way the WSP says it does business in the article - namely seizing evidence without any notice to the alleged perpetrator (so he/she can't erase it), examining that evidence and then making the arrest if there is, indeed, evidence.

But, that's not what happened, is it? And even, it was, why would they seize evidence, arrest a suspect and then examine the evidence?

Strange. Very, very strange.

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Brian Schaeffer
DATE OF INCIDENT: 2/29/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 4214 N WASHINGTON ST
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99208

NARRATIVE: On Friday February 29, 2008 at 1:31 PM an SFD Pumper-Ladder 13 was dispatched to check on a good samaritan report of smoke that appeared to be coming from a vent at a home in the 4200 block of Washington. After the dispatch, Spokane Police Officers that we in the area arrived and reported a two story home with fire showing on both the first and second floors. The officers also reported that they were not sure if anyone was inside and they had attempted to make entry. The officers were prevented from doing so by security measures (bars on windows and doors) placed by the home owner.

The alarm was upgraded to a full-response and added 4 Engines, 1 Heavy Rescue, one Senior Ladder under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Inman and Cornelius. When the first company officer arrived, she reported a two story house with heavy smoke and fire showing. The home was an older "balloon frame" constructed home which included a full basement. First, second and third-in companies established a water supply and forced entry into the north and west sides of the home in attempts to search for victims and attempt to extinguish the quickly moving fire. The truck company performed vertical ventilation over the fire which had already extended into the attack and void spaces on the second floor. A two-person team from Engine 3 was nearly trapped in the basement during the attack and made it out as the basement flashed over. At that point as the incident commander was confirming all personnel were accounted for, a second alarm was struck to assist the companies operating at the fire.

Information was received (and confirmed) by the incident commander that the two occupants of the house were outside and accounted for. The strategy of the incident was changed to 'defensive' and the arriving second alarm companies deployed master streams from Ladder Companies and from the ground to confine the fire to the residence of origin.

Despite the difficulties with access and rapid fire growth prior to the SFD's arrival, the fire was contained. Both company members on Engine 3 were seen by paramedics, but not transported. They are still at work, and at time of this release are on the second structure fire at 1528 West Alice.


PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause is under investigation by the SIU.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The home is a complete loss. Two occupants are being assisted by the Spokane Fire Department CARES Team and Red Cross.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 35
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002

END OF RELEASE

Happy Birthday Local 29! What have you ever done for us?!?!

This from Dan Renner, and of course, Monty Python and the JPF (not to be confused with the PFJ).

See you at the party tonight!

Minneapolis Bars figure out a way around smoking ban - "Theatre Night"...

It has been nice - going on calls into what were once smoky bars.

But, I have to admit I voted against banning smoking in bars. I thought, and I still do think, that it was an unnecessary government intrusion into the lives of those who frequent bars.

Looks like the folks in Minneapolis have found a way around the law. I don't know if Washington's law is the same, but if it is, don't be surprised to go to the Rainbow Tavern on an assault and find a very smoky rendition of Hamlet taking place.

Alas poor Yorick...

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Dan Brown
DATE OF INCIDENT: 2/24/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 3724 South Tekoa
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99203

NARRATIVE: On the afternoon of February 24, 2008 at 5:01 pm the City of Spokane Fire Department responded to 3724 South Tekoa for a reported fire in the kitchen ceiling. The first apparatus on scene reported light smoke showing from the roof. Upon further investigation fire was discovered in the ceiling above the kitchen. Crews quickly removed the ceiling and extinguished the fire. This fire was confined to the underside of the roof and insulation above the ceiling. The fire was knocked down with in minutes of the fire departments arrival. The crews checked for extensions and completed overhaul in about an hour and a half. Damage was confined to the kitchen ceiling and light smoke throughout the main floor. The cause of the fire appears to be an over heated recessed light above the kitchen sink. There were no injuries to report

PROBABLE CAUSE: Over heated recessed light
DAMAGE EXTENT: Ceiling above the kitchen. Light smoke throughout the main floor
DOLLAR LOSS: 7000.00
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 19
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002

END OF RELEASE

Fire Press Release

Issuing Officer:

Ken Kirsch/ Battalion Chief

Date of Incident:

2/14/2008

Incident Address:

1228 W Chelan



Spokane, Wa

Structure Fire

On 02/14/08 at approximately 1828 hrs units of the City of Spokane Fire Department responded to 1228 W Chelan upon report of a structure fire. First arriving Fire Department units found a 1 ½ story, wood-frame, duplex, heavily involved in fire. Fire was evident in the rear or south portion of the residence. Fire Department members advanced pre-connected hose-lines into the south side of the structure, advanced to the second floor and soon had the fire under control. While the fire was being extinguished, other firefighters, searched the 1st and 2nd stories for possible victims, and ventilated the roof to allow smoke to escape the building. The fire was brought under control within about 30 minutes but SFD crews remained on to scene assure extinguishment for about another 4 hours. A total of 28 firefighters on 10 trucks initially fought this blaze with many other crews rotating into the scene to assist with overhaul and to provide security throughout the night. No injuries were reported to either firefighters or tenants of the residence. Significant fire damage was evident to the south stairway of the residence and to most portions of the second floor. The first floor had moderate water damage. Four tenants were displaced from the duplex with the Red Cross assisting each.

Probable Cause:


The cause of this fire is still undetermined and under investigation. Investigators were on scene during the evening hours and will return in the morning to continue the origin and cause determination.

Damage Extent:

Damage was extensive to the south stairway as well as to most of the 2nd floor. Water damage was evident on the 1st floor.

Firefighter Response: 28

Dollar Loss: $

Mutual Aid: None Given

END OF RELEASE

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

Fire Press Release

Issuing Officer:

BC Craig Cornelius

Date of Incident:

2/13/2008

Incident Address:

4016 N. Division



Spokane, WA 99201

Structure Fire

This evening, February 13, 2008 at 2210 hours, the Spokane Fire Department responded to a reported fire in the Kentucky Fried Chicken Restaurant located at 4016 N. Division St. The first arriving fire companies arrived within 5 minutes of being dispatched and found heavy grey smoke coming from the rear of the building. Workers from the restaurant reported that the fire was in the rear kitchen area and that everyone had safely evacuated the burning building. Fire crews forced a rear metal door off the kitchen area and attacked the fire with several fire attack leads. Additional crews ventilated the roof and front windows to assist the firefighters advancing the leads inside the building. Interior crews fought fire throughout the entire kitchen and rear roof areas. The firefighters brought the fire under control within 30 minutes. There were no injuries to civilians or firefighters at this incident. The restaurant sustained heavy fire and smoke damage. The cause of this fire is still under investigation. The official pronouncement will be made by investigators after all evidence has been reviewed. Fire crews will likely be on the scene for the remainder of the night.

Probable Cause:


Still Under Investigation.

Damage Extent:

Extensive damage to the entire kitchen area.

Firefighter Response: 24

Dollar Loss: $

Mutual Aid: None Given

END OF RELEASE

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

Fire Press Release - Spokane Family is burned out of their home - No mention in the media!

Issuing Officer:

Bruce Moline/Battalion Chief

Date of Incident:

2/9/2008

Incident Address:

2654 N. Walnut



Spokane, WA 99205

Structure Fire

On February 8th, 2008 at 3:10 P.M. the Spokane Fire Department responded 3 engine companies, 2 ladder companies, 1 rescue company and 2 battalion chiefs to a house fire at 2654 N. Walnut. Fire crews found a wood frame home with fire in one of the upstairs bedrooms. A simultaneous attack, consisting of hose lines inside, ventilation crews on the roof, search teams inside and backup crews, were deployed and effectively, the fire was cutoff and contained after 25 minutes. The home had been occupied by a family of 5 and all were able to escape the house. There was a large population of pets inside the home consisting of cats, dogs, lizards, chinchillas, birds and rabbits and all were spared as most of them were on the first and basement levels. The Spokane Fire Department Community Assistance Resource Team (CARES) arrived along with the Red Cross and assisted with the family in making arrangements for lodging, clothing and food. The entire second floor suffered damage from fire and smoke. The roof was cut open to relieve the atmosphere below of heat and smoke, and some of the floor and wall in the bedroom on the second level was also breached in order to seek out and extinguish any hidden fire that remained. A thermal imaging camera was used to assist with this operation. There were a total 19 firefighters that fought this blaze. There were no injuries to firefighters or civilians. At this time, the fire appears to be electrical in origin. A fire department investigator was called to the scene.

Probable Cause:


Electrical wiring underneath the bedroom floor.

Damage Extent:

Heavy fire and smoke damage to both second floor bedrooms. Clothing, furniture, children's toys and keepsakes were all damaged in this fire. The structure suffered some water damage as well.

Firefighter Response: 19

Dollar Loss: $96,000

Mutual Aid: None Given

END OF RELEASE

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

Washington State Council of Firefighters Concert Tickets

Here is some concert footage of the band - La Pequeña Prohibida. Supposedly the union office has some free tickets. Supplies are limited. I think Ed Miller used to manage this group.

Columbia Stair Climb

It will soon be here.

If you would like to be a vital member of the team, without even breaking a sweat, please click here

Your donations will help fund blood disease research!

Fire Press Release

Issuing Officer:

Bruce Moline/Battalion Chief

Date of Incident:

2/4/2008

Incident Address:

1417 W. Shannon



Spokane, WA 99205

Structure Fire

On 2-4-08 at 8:01 P.M. the Spokane Fire Department responded 3 engine companies, 2 ladder companies, 1 rescue company and a battalion chief to a fire in a home located at 1417 W. Shannon. Firefighters found a fire burning near a wooden stairway and rapidly extending through walls and floors nearby. Two adults and two children made their way to safety because they were alerted by working smoke detectors. A centrally supervised alarm system was present in the home and the fire department was alerted immediately because of this. Crews worked hard to expose the hidden fire in the walls and floor by cutting open these areas with pike poles, axes and chain saws. Due to the smoky conditions inside, this took some time but eventually, firefighters were able to expose all areas where the fire had traveled. The fire was successfully contained after 45 minutes. It appears that the fire began after a fire had been built inside a fireplace insert. After heavy use, hot fires and repeated exposure to radiant and conducted heat, wooden framing members surrounding the chimney ignited. Once this ignition occurred, the fire then extended vertically inside the wall and also caught a portion of the wooden stairway and floor above on fire. There was smoke damage throughout the home, a minimal amount of water damage, and heavy fire damage to the walls, staircase and floor. A total of 21 firefighters responded to this alarm. There were no injuries to firefighters or civilians. Shortly after the fire was contained, the Red Cross arrived to assist the family with arrangements. A working smoke detection and alarm system was key in alerting the family in this fire. The father had said that he had just put his children to bed and then his detectors began to activate. Firefighters remained on the scene until approximately midnight making sure all of the hotspots had been thoroughly extinguished. A fire crew will report to the scene this morning as well to complete some follow up work.

Probable Cause:


Repeated and heavy use of a fireplace insert that had with time, ignited adjacent structural framing members due to conducted and radiant heat.

Damage Extent:

Heavy fire damage to walls, a floor and the staircase. Smoke damage throughout the home and a small amount of water damage.

Firefighter Response: 21

Dollar Loss: $75,000

Mutual Aid: None Given

END OF RELEASE

Fire Press Release

Issuing Officer:

Bruce Moline/Battalion Chief

Date of Incident:

2/4/2008

Incident Address:

2006 W. Gardner



Spokane, WA 99201

Structure Fire

On 2-4-08 at 12:05 P.M. the Spokane Fire Department responded 3 engine companies, 2 ladder companies, a rescue company and a battalion chief to an apartment fire located at 2006 W. Gardner. Upon arrival, fire crews found a fire burning on the second level of a 2 story home that had been converted into 4 apartment units. The fire was located in a wall and was rapidly extending into the attic. A rapid search was conducted throughout the structure and it was found that all occupants either had made their way to safety or were not at home. Firefighters had to fight their way through very poor visibility due to the thickening smoke and growing fire. Two teams of ladder crews were able to successfully ventilate the roof by cutting it open with their chain saws. This allowed the build up of heat and smoke to rise and increase visibility while at the same time, help confine the fire by drawing it in one direction. Firefighters were able to contain the fire after 40 minutes. The fire was caused by a plumber's propane torch that was too close to combustibles while doing some repair work within the home. There were 4 occupants that will be displaced temporarily while repairs are made to the home. These occupants will be staying with friends/relatives. An SFD CARES (community assistance response team) representative was helping with making arrangements for the tenants. A total of 23 firefighters responded on this alarm. There were no injuries to firefighters or civilians. The Spokane Fire Department would like to remind everyone that when using open flame, a clearance of at least 3 feet should be maintained between the flame and the combustibles. It is also recommended that a fully operational extinguisher be kept nearby at all times.

Probable Cause:


A plumber's torch while performing repair work, too close to combustibles.

Damage Extent:

Heavy fire damage to the upstairs bathroom and kitchen. Smoke and water damage throughout the 4 unit apartment building.

Firefighter Response: 23

Dollar Loss: $60,000

Mutual Aid: None Given

END OF RELEASE

Talked with Todd this morning...

He wanted you to know the circumstances of his situation.

Todd was notified by Bank of America that his credit card was compromised in July or early August. The charges were made earlier in the spring. Someone had used his number to buy a camera and there were charges made to a Yahoo account. There was no description of these charges. Whoever had made the charges had used the wrong names and birth dates. Todd canceled the account immediately. He had no idea what the Yahoo account charges were about. There was no description.

Todd wanted all of you to know that he very much appreciates your support. Your phone messages to him have meant a lot after what he has been through.

Todd says that this has been a very humiliating experience for him, and your confidence in his strength of character has helped him a lot.

Todd, know that here in the stations you have our support and you'll get through this.

When Fire Strikes, Stop, Drop and... Sing?

Interesting article on the future of soundwaves in firefighting. Click link above to read the whole thing.


An excerpt:

"I throw more power into my voice, and now the flame is extinguished," wrote Irish scientist John Tyndall about his experiments with sound and fire in 1857. Countless public demonstrations and a handful of lab tests later, researchers are still struggling to determine exactly how sound snuffs flames.

Sound travels in waves, which are simply variations of pressure in a medium—whether solid, liquid or gas. The energy from vibrating objects, such as speaker membranes, moves from particle to particle in the air in a repeating pattern of high- and low-pressure zones that we perceive as sound. According to the ideal gas law, temperature, pressure and volume are related; therefore, a decrease in pressure can lead to a corresponding decrease in temperature, which may explain how sound can extinguish a flame.

In 2004 Dmitriy Plaks and several of his fellow students at the University of West Georgia tested whether sound waves can douse fires in hopes of using sound to extinguish flames in a spacecraft. VIDEO They placed a candle in a large topless chamber with three bass speakers attached to the walls. The candle was lit and the Canadian rock band Nickelback's "How you remind me" was pumped through the subwoofers. Within roughly 10 seconds, once the song hit a low note, the flame was out, according to results published in 2005 in The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America.

Oakland Firefighters Overtime Extravaganza!

WARNING:There is no nudity in this clip, but there are some scantily clad women with flaming pasties. The Oakland Firefighters discuss the hazard with which these present. You make the call on whether you will be offended or whether this is safe for work viewing.

Now that the city has their own fire-department-related blog, the Local 29 blog will try to raise the bar, in an effort to bring you the highest-quality, timely articles and information.

And in a nod of collegiality, we invite the fire department blogsters a link to this video for their use, as well.

Cruise Line Discount for Firefighters

From Roger Libby:

My wife is a travel consultant and has just informed me that one of the major cruise lines is now offering special discounted fares to police, fire, teachers & military personnel. The itineraries include Alaska/Australia & New Zealand/Canada & New England/The Caribbean/Europe/Hawaii/Mexico/and the South Pacific. Depending on the itinerary, some of the sailings begin in March (a great time to get away). Fares start at around $499 per person (not incl. taxes and applicable fees). I have personally sailed with this cruise line, and loved it. For my money, cruising is one of the best bargains in travel, and these fares make it even more appealing. If anyone is interested, please contact:

Debbie Alexander
AAA Travel
509-358-7006
email: deborahalexander@aaawin.com
Please identify yourself as a firefighter so she can quote you the best price.

Fire Press Release

Structure Fire

On January 20th, 2008 at 12:16 A.M. the Spokane Fire Department responded 3 engine companies, 2 ladder companies, 1 pumper ladder company, 1 rescue company and 2 battalion chiefs to a house fire located at 3110 N. Alberta. As crews were enroute to this incident, it was reported that there may have been an explosion and that a child may still be inside the home. When firefighters arrived, the entire back half of the house and an attached storage shed were fully engulfed in flames. A search and rescue team was set up and coordinated with a fire attack team as well as rooftop ventilation and it was soon confirmed that all occupants were safe and accounted for on the outside of the home. The fire was successfully knocked down and contained within 30 minutes and through firefighting efforts, crews were able to prevent the fire from consuming the front half of the home. As soon as the fire was contained, the long and arduous task of overhaul began and continued until 4:00 A.M. This involved pulling ceilings and removing burned items including structural members of the home. All of the occupants will be staying with friends and the Red Cross was notified for any other assistance that they may need. A total of 24 firefighters responded and fought this blaze. The cause is currently under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department Special Investigation Unit and has been undetermined at this time. There were no injuries to firefighters or civilians on this incident.

Probable Cause:


Undetermined. Under investigation by the Special Investigation Unit of the Spokane Fire Department.

Damage Extent:

Heavy fire Damage to the exterior and upper level of the home including the roof. Smoke damage throughout the home.

Firefighter Response: 24

Dollar Loss: $90,000

Mutual Aid: None Given

Fire Press Release

Issuing Officer:

Battalion Chief Dan Brown

Date of Incident:

1/17/2008

Incident Address:

322 EAST Foothill Dr



Spokane, WA 99207

Structure Fire

On January 17th 2008 Thursday at 11:07 a fire was reported in a storage unit at Self Storage 322 East Foothills Dr. Upon leaving the Station Ladder Company 2 reported a large column of smoke showing from a storage complex. Arriving on scene L2 reported several units were fully involved in flame. Large diameter hose lines were advanced to attack the fire. The storage units were metal clad construction which made it very difficult to gain entry and attack the fire. All the metal doors faces had to be cut by saws in order to release smoke and heat so firefighters could advance leads into the units, also door locks were cut. The roof was trenched about 150 feet from the first storage unit on fire; this was done to prevent the spread of fire into other units. Five units and contents were heavily damaged by fire and smoke. In all eighteen units suffered smoke and heat damage. It took about forty minutes to knock the main body of fire down. Overhaul and final extinguishment took an additional four hours. There were no injuries to report. Twenty three firefighters and three command personnel responded to this incident The Fire Department Community Assistance Response team (CARES) responded to this incident to render any help that may be needed for the tenants of the storage units. The cause of this fire is under investigation.

Probable Cause:


Under investigation

Damage Extent:

5 storage units and contents heavy damage. 13 other storage units suffered heat and smoke damage.

Firefighter Response: 23

Dollar Loss: $130,000,00

Mutual Aid: None Given

Fire Press Release

Issuing Officer:

Mike Inman / Battalion Chief

Date of Incident:

1/16/2008

Incident Address:

7007 N. Tucannon



Spokane, WA 99208

Structure Fire

At 11:44 pm January 16, 2007 the Spokane Fire Department dispatched 3 Engines, 1 Ladder Truck, 1 Pumper Ladder, a Rescue Truck and 2 Battalion Chiefs to a reported house fire at 7007 N. Tucannon in Northwest Spokane. Upon arrival of the first Engine Company they reported a split level style house fully involved. Fire and smoke were coming out windows on the street side of the house. A 4th Engine Company and an investigator were dispatched for a total of 25 Firefighters. An aggressive frontal attack through the front door coordinated with ventilation of the house resulted in a fast knock down of the fire. A search of the house indicated that everyone had gotten out. At home at the time of the fire were an adult female and 3 school age children. The family was alerted to the fire by working smoke detectors in the house and there were no injuries to the occupants. There were no injuries of Firefighters as well. Firefighting efforts were made a little more difficult due to the cold temperatures in the low 20's F. and significant ice build up on the streets in the area. Crews will be on scene the rest of the night to assist with the investigation of the fire as the cause has not been determined at this time. Damage was extensive to one bedroom and a hallway with heat and smoke damage throughout the rest of the house. The lives of 4 people could very well have been saved due to the smoke alarm activation that notified the family of the fire. Again the Fire Department cannot overstate the importance of working smoke detectors in the home, they do save lives.

Probable Cause:


Under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department

Damage Extent:

Significant damage to 1 bedroom and part of a hallway with head and smoke damage throughout the 4 level house

Firefighter Response: 25

Dollar Loss: $

Mutual Aid: None Given

Fire Press Release

Issuing Officer:

Bruce Moline/Battalion Chief

Date of Incident:

1/15/2008

Incident Address:

5727 N. Calispel



Spokane, WA 99205

Structure Fire

On 1/15/08 at 10:12 A.M. the Spokane Fire Department responded 4 engine companies, 1 pumper ladder company, 1 ladder company, a rescue unit and 2 battalion chiefs to a report of a fire in a house located at 5727 N. Calispel. Upon arrival, fire crews found a well involved home with fire coming from the windows. A rapid entry was made by forcing doors and crews began to search the structure for victims while at the same time extinguishing the fire. Fortunately, no one was at home at the time of the fire. However, one deceased cat was found inside. Spokanimal was summoned to the scene to assist with the cat. It took firefighters 15 minutes to extinguish the fire but they remained on scene for a number of hours to make sure all of the fire was completely out. Upon close examination, it was revealed that a portion of one of the exterior walls had been forced out. The special investigative unit of the Spokane Fire Department arrived and began their investigative work. It was found that the fire was caused by combustibles placed too close to a gas fired water heater. These combustibles soon ignited and then the flames burned through the regulator next to the water tank which allowed a larger amount of gas to escape and ignite. When the gas ignited it created an explosion which pushed out the exterior wall to the home. Two firefighters received minor injuries during the blaze. One received a foot injury and the other received a leg injury. Firefighters completed final extinguishment and then began the long process of debris removal. Crews were present at the home until the late afternoon. The Spokane Fire Department "Cares" unit was brought to the scene to assist the family with making arrangements for shelter, clothing and food. The American Red Cross was also notified. A total of 22 firefighters responded to this fire along with 2 battalion chiefs. The Spokane Fire Department would like to remind the public that a 3 foot clearance or more needs to be kept around and from any hot water heater or electrical panel. Water tanks like these are typically located in basements or areas where storage items accumulate and sometimes these combustibles end up within the 3 foot radius of the tank. Make sure and keep your electrical panel doors shut as well. The family will be staying with friends while their home is repaired and restored.

Probable Cause:


Combustibles placed too close to a gas fired water heater.

Damage Extent:

Major fire and smoke damage throughout the structure.

Firefighter Response: 22

Dollar Loss: $200,000

Mutual Aid: None Given

Barton Jeep Discount...

As you probably know, last year Local 29 became a member of the Spokane Chamber of Commerce. I just received some dandy looking certificates from a fellow chamber member that will entitle you to purchase a new Jeep for $100 over factory invoice or a used vehicle for $750 below what they're asking.

Is this a good deal? I have no idea. You've seen what I "drive."

I have five of these certificates. If you want one, email me and let me know.

Thanks, John

The January newsletter is available at the Local 29 website

There are quite a few people who receive the newsletter automatically via their email. If you would like this service (it's free and convenient), please email me and I will put you on the list.

Thanks,

BillFoss@comcast.net

How we died in the line of duty for 2007...

Click on the link above for the breakdown. Thanks Gonzo for sharing this!

More info from Terry Canfield on ID protection.

Just a reminder for everyone that prior to the Union meeting on Tuesday night there will be a presentation about protecting yourself against Identity Theft and providing yourself with a Family Legal Plan.

Also, there is an update for those who have already taken advantage of PrePaid Legal's service. They have upgraded the real time credit monitoring to include all three credit repositories. We will have more information regarding this "Gold" service at the meeting as well.

Thanks,
Terry


Click on the title above to view the e-book.

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Batt. Chief Craig Cornelius
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/4/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 713 East 9th Ave
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: ON the morning of January 4, 2008 the City of Spokane's fire department responded 7 fire apparatus and 2 command personnel to a reported fire located at 713 East 9th Avenue. Neighbors reported fire showing on the entire backside of the home.

Within 5 minutes of receiving the call, Engine 7 arrived on the scene under the command of Lt. Kelly Smith. Lt Smith reported that the home's occupant was safely out, and then, along with her crew advanced a hose line into the burning home to extinguish the fire. (During this initial attack fire was burning in the basement, first floor and attic areas.) Additional hose lines were used to extinguish fire in these areas. The main body of fire was extinguished inside 10 minutes.

There were no injuries to the homeowner or his dog. The home owner was alerted to the fast spreading fire by the home's smoke detector. The home sustained heavy fire damage to the backside, basement and attic areas, but many of the interior furnishings were salvaged by the firefighters.





PROBABLE CAUSE: This fire appears to have been caused by an electrical heating appliance that was located in a "Chicken Coop". This coop was adjacent to the backside of the home. The fire spread from this location into the home. (None of the chickens were injured.)

DAMAGE EXTENT: Extensive structual damage to siding and attic areas.
DOLLAR LOSS: 50,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 27
MUTUAL AID: None Given

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

With Dodd out, IAFF will wait until March to endorse next candidate...

At least that's the way it looks now. Until then, IAFF leadership will focus on efforts to educate voters on the real Rudy - an easy but putrid job. Hopefully they wear gloves and mask up, because once you start moving the stuff that Giuliani has buried himself in it's going to stink!

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Bruce Moline/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 12/28/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 5008 N. Allen place
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99205

NARRATIVE: On 12/28/07 at 2:43 P.M. the Spokane Fire Department responded 3 engine companies, 1 pumper ladder company, 1 rescue company, 2 battalion chiefs and an assistant chief to a house fire located at 5008 N. Allen place. Fire crews found a fire in the attic that had been burning for a long period of time. All of the occupants had safely evacuated and the fire was contained within 5 minutes. The fire was electrical in origin and the occupants confirmed that they had been experiencing trouble with a number of electrical circuits within the home. As soon as smoke was detected, the occupants placed a call to the 911 center. Because of their quick action in placing this call, fire damage was kept to a minimum. Fire crews remained at the home for 1 ½ hours extinguishing "hot spots" and cleaning up fire debris. All of the electrical circuits are shut down and will remain so until they can be repaired and inspected. The occupants will be staying with other family members until the home is approved for occupancy. Fire damage was confined to wooden structural components in the attic, insulation, and ceiling. A total of 15 firefighters and 3 command officers responded to this alarm.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Electrical.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Fire damage to the attic, insulation and ceiling system.
DOLLAR LOSS: 15,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 15
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Bob Green
DATE OF INCIDENT: 12/24/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2022 N Dakota
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99205

NARRATIVE: The Spokane City Fire Dept. responded fire fighting apparatus and crews to 2022 N Dakota at 0016 hrs. on the 24th of December for a reported structure fire. Initial reports from the first arriving crew indicated heavy smoke issuing from the front door and eaves of a 1.5 story wood/frame residence. Next arriving crews, arriving from different directions, reported fire blowing out the rear of the building from a small "dormer" window located at the attic level. Quick and aggressive actions by the crews at the scene resulted in a fairly quick knock down of the fire as they forced entry through the front door, extinguished the main body of fire burning on the first floor, and pushed the fire burning in the stairway leading to the attic out the "dormer" window. While specific fire crews were attacking and extinguishing the fire inside, other crews were doing a primary and a secondary search of the interior of the residence to insure that none of the tenants were trapped inside, and still other fire crews were assigned to be in position on the roof should conditions warrant cutting ventilation holes in the roof to release pent up smoke and gases. The searches that were conducted revealed that no one was at home at the time of the fire, their actual location is still not known but during the Holiday Season many folks travel to be with family and friends outside of the Spokane area. The damage caused by this early morning fire was extensive, nearly every room on the main floor sustained fire damage and the stairway and the attic were also heavily damaged. There were no reports of any injuries to the firefighters at the scene. Fire crews remained at the scene assisting the Fire Investigator as he worked to determine the cause of the fire until 0330 hrs. Six pieces of fire apparatus and their crews were dispatched to this fire along with two Battalion Chiefs in their Command vehicles and the on-duty Fire Investigator from the Fire Dept.'s Special Investigation Unit. At the time of this media release the cause of the fire has not been determined.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Unknown at this time, still being investigated.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Heavy fire damage to all rooms and their contents on the first floor. The attic space and the stairway leading up to the attic were also seriously damaged. The main structural members of the house received minimal damage.
DOLLAR LOSS: 50,000.00
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 23
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Santa Smith knockout makes CNN...

I hope this hasn't started some new kind of gang initiation.

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Bruce Moline/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 12/14/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1207 E. Queen
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99207

NARRATIVE: On 12/13/07 at 11:39 P.M. the Spokane Fire Department responded 4 engine companies, 2 ladder companies, a rescue company and one battalion chief to a fire in a motor home located behind a residence at 1207 E. Queen. First in units discovered a 20 foot motor home fully involved with flame extension involving a nearby wood frame dwelling about 10 feet away. A rapid deployment of hose lines including roof ventilation by ladder companies was conducted as were search operations to make sure everyone inside the house was safely evacuated. It took firefighters 10 minutes to contain the fire in the motor home and the dwelling. As a result of their actions, firefighters were able to keep damage to the dwelling to a minimum as only the exterior siding and a portion of the roof were damaged. The motor home was a total loss. A total of 23 firefighters responded on this alarm. There were no injuries to firefighters or civilians. The fire at this time is under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department Special Investigations Unit under the direction of Capt. Kevin Smathers. Firefighters remained on the scene for 2 hours completing final extinguishment and mop up duties. The dwelling was occupied by 3 people and they will be able to remain at the home.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Under investigation at this time.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The motor home was a total loss. The dwelling sustained fire damage to the siding and a small portion of the roof.
DOLLAR LOSS: 20,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 23
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Brian Schaeffer, Assistant Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 12/13/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 10305 North Moore Street
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99208

NARRATIVE: On Thursday, December 13, 2007 at 5:17 PM, 5 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 3 Engines, 1 Senior Ladder and 1 Heavy Rescue under the direction of Battalion Chief Moline responded to a reported house fire at 10305 North Moore Street.

The first company (Engine 17) arrived within four minutes to discover heavy smoke and fire showing from a two-story, single family wood framed house with multiple exposures. Initial companies immediately upgraded the alarm to a "working fire" which added and additional Engine and support for the operation. Off-duty Battalion Chief Fielder was the initial incident commander as lives in the neighborhood. He assisted the initial crews assemble their equipment and coordinated their efforts.

Despite the safeguards in-place on scene, a two-person team of firefighters working on the first floor under heavy fire conditions experienced a partial fall into the basement when a section of flooring above the main fire collapsed beneath them. The company was in communication with the incident commander and they were able to exit the structure together to guarantee their accountability. Within minutes of the report, all firefighters were accounted for safely through the SFD's passport accountability system. The firefighters were briefly evaluated and returned to the fireground within minutes.

Notwithstanding the extreme cold and heavy snow, the fire was reported out nearly an hour into the incident. There were no injuries to civilians and minor injuries to a firefighter.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The fire originated in the basement and grew, undetected, for a significant amount of time. The family was home at the time of the fire, however were separated from the area of origin. The cause of the fire was determined to be an overloaded electrical outlet in the basement. Large amounts of combustibles fueled the fire and it spread rapidly causing significant damage to the first and second floors. A smoke detector was located on the second floor; however none were operating in the basement.
DAMAGE EXTENT: There is considerable damage throughout all floors due to heat and rapid fire promulgation. The most damage, however, is in the basement and first floor. The home is not able to be reoccupied and utilities have been disconnected.
DOLLAR LOSS: 250,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 21
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Spokane Garage Fire Featured on Jimmy Kimmel

This is from early November. His monologue regarding the fire starts at 6:30 on the timer. After you hit the "play" icon, you can drag the cursor to -3:20 and that should get you there.

Fire Press Release

SSUING OFFICER: Batt. Chief Craig Cornelius
DATE OF INCIDENT: 11/28/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 3010 W.
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: On November 28, 2007, at 0758 hours the Spokane Fire Department dispatched 6 fire apparatus and 22 personnel for a reported fire at the Taco Bell located at 3010 East 29th Ave. Employees had called 911 after smelling smoke inside the restaurant. Engine 14 arrived within 4 minutes and reported smoke inside the structure. Engine 14 extended a pre-connected hose line inside and assigned work to the other incoming apparatus. Fire was located in a Heating / Air Conditioning unit on the roof and attic ductwork below the unit. The fire was controlled within 10 minutes, but several units worked at the scene for well over an hour.

There were no injuries to civilians or firefighters at this incident. The quick actions of the workers and firefighters minimized fire damage at this location. Taco Bell should be back in business within a few days as damaged was confined to a small portion of the building in the restaurant's storage area. The fire cause appears to be related to a malfunctioning mechanical part inside the Heating unit on the roof.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Mechanical Malfunction
DAMAGE EXTENT: HVAC unit and attic ductwork.
DOLLAR LOSS: 10000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 22
MUTUAL AID: None Given

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

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Joel Fielder/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 11/24/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1514 West 9th Avenue
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: This morning, November 24, 2007 the Spokane Fire Department responded at approximately 12:13 AM to 1514 West 9th Avenue on a reported structure fire. Fire crews responding to this incident report fire showing from several blocks away. The first crew on-scene reported fire coming from the top floor of a 2-1/2-story, wood framed apartment building with 3 civilians trapped on the roof. All three civilians and their dog were rescued from the roof by Fire Station 4 personnel using their Ariel ladder. During the rescue operation other fire fighters aggressively attacked the fire from the interior of the structure and from an outside fire escape. The fire had extended into the attic and a ventilation hole was cut in the roof to relieve the pent up heat and smoke in the apartment on the top floor to aid in fire attack. The fire was brought under control within 40 minutes and crews remained on scene for the rest of the morning. Of the three civilians rescued from the roof two were treated and released from a local hospital with minor burns and smoke inhalation and the third person was reported to have been transport to the Harbor View Burn Center and his condition is not known at the time of the this release. The remaining tenants of the structure are being assisted by Red Cross. There were no reported injuries to firefighters.
PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire is under investigation by Fire Investigator, Captain Kevin Smathers and he may be contacted at 625-7052
DAMAGE EXTENT: Fire damage was confined to the third floor and the attic.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 36
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Joel Fielder/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 11/23/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1511 West Gardner
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: This afternoon, November 23, 2007 the Spokane Fire Department responded at approximately 12:39 PM to 1511 West Gardner on a reported structure fire. Fire crews responding to this incident report smoke showing from several blocks away. The first crew on-scene reported smoke coming from the eaves of a 1-1/2-story, wood framed residence with fire showing from a window on the main floor at the back of the house. Fire fighters aggressively attacked the fire from the interior of the structure however they encountered a large volume of household goods and belongings that had been collected and stored through out the house that made fire attack extremely difficult. The fire had extended into the second floor and then into the attic as fire crews were able to find the stair way door leading to the upstairs. The fire crews were withdrawn from the structure due to safety concerns and fire attack transitioned to a defensive position. Once the fire vented completely through the roof fire crews were able to safely re-enter the structure for final extinguishment and salvage and overhaul. The owner was not home at the time of the fire however the family dog was found insdie the house near the front door by fire crews and was in respiratory distress. Oxygen was supplied to the dog via a special pet oxygen mask carried by the fire department and the dog was revived. There were no reported injuries to civilians or firefighters. Nine fire companies with 28 firefighters responded to this fire and were on scene for approximately 3 hours
PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire is under investigation by Fire Investigator, Captain Kevin Smathers and he may be contacted at 625-7052.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Fire damage was confined to the first and second floor with heat and smoke damage to the rest of the structure.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 28
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Newsletter Deadline

Monday, December 3rd.

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Joel Fielder/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 11/20/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1604 E. Pacific
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: Today, November 20, 2007, the Spokane Fire Department responded at 05:48 AM to 1604 East Pacific on a reported structure fire. The first crew on-scene reported smoke showing from the front door of a, 1-story, brick house. An aggressive interior attack by on scene fire crews confined the majority of fire to a bedroom in the basement with smoke damage through out the house. Crews completed a primary search of the residence and the house was found unoccupied. The fire was brought under control within 20 minutes and there were no reported injuries to firefighters.
PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire is under investigation by Spokane Fire Investigator Greg McClatchey and he can be contacted at 625-7052.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Damage was confined to the basement and the main floor.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 28
MUTUAL AID: None Given

9-1-1 Calls - from the Tonight Show...

Working Class Heroes Bar on Monroe

Great union meeting last night. Among other things, we learned that Working Class Heroes on Monroe likes us. They are offering discounts when you show your FF ID. They are a pro-union bar. In fact, the owner (a former union worker and union organizer) is helping the workers organize into a union. We think it may be the only union bar and grill in Spokane. Apparently, the food is good and they have a lot of microbrews on tap. The only time I've been in there is on calls. It is always really clean with a good, friendly crowd. Anyway, just thought I'd pass that on.

E-Board Candidate Letter

Re-Elect Darryl Wisniewski
For Executive Board

The Executive Board has been a fulfilling position for me to hold. The people who know me personally know how passionate I can be about the topics that come up from time to time. I can be, what some would call, hard headed at times, but I am willing to try to see the other side of the coin and get the job done. Some of the things that I would like to see happen in the near future are:

• Wild Land mobilization
• A new LEOFF II law for medical
• Continued active participation in the political arena
• Future Improvements in our contract language

I am asking for your vote, so I can continue to work hard for my brothers and sisters to better our job and our futures.

Please VOTE Darryl Wisniewski

November newsletter is out

Those of you who get it emailed to you should now have it. If you would like it emailed to you, let me know - billfoss@comcast.net

The newsletter will be posted soon on the local's website, I am told.

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Mike Inman / Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 11/12/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 4004 E. 29th Ave.
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99223

NARRATIVE: At 1028 pm November 12, 2007 the Spokane Fire Department dispatched 3 Engines, 1 Ladder Truck, 1 Pumper Ladder, 1 Rescue Unit and 2 Battalion Chiefs to a reported house fire at 4004 E. 29th Ave. in Spokane Washington. Upon arrival Engine 14 reported heavy smoke from the structure with the occupants outside on the sidewalk. A second report indicated that heavy fire was coming out of the back of the house. A quick attack by the first two fire apparatus on scene knocked the main body of the fire down with two 1 ¾" attack lines and additional crews did a search of the house to make sure everybody had gotten out. As more crews arrived a thorough overhaul was initiated looking for extension of the fire into the structure. No extensions were found and the fire was reported to be out within 30 minutes. The fire crews assisted the tenants by retrieving personal items and medications prior to allowing them back in. Gas and electrical utilities to the house were shut off for safety reasons. The house, a rental, suffered significant damage to the kitchen with heavy heat and smoke damage to the rest of the houses main floor. Due to the quick thinking of the residents, one adult and one child, they closed their bedroom doors when exiting the house and suffered no smoke or heat damage to their rooms or their contents. Heat in the hallway was so intense that the smoke detector on the ceiling was destroyed and laying on the floor. The residents were awakened by a loud pop and discovered the fire in the kitchen area. There were no civilian or Firefighter injuries associated with the fire. A fire investigator was called to determine the origin of the fire and Red Cross was called to assist the displaced residents. The only known casualty of the fire was a family pet. It is important to remember to keep doors in the house shut to slow down or stop the spread of the fire and make sure smoke detectors are working. Get yourself out of the structure and wait for the Fire Department, it is very hazardous to reenter a burning structure or delay getting out to save contents.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Under investigation
DAMAGE EXTENT: Significant damage to the kitchen with heavy smoke and heat damage throughout the rest of the main floor. Both bedrooms and the bathroom sustained little or no damage due the closing of the doors prior to exiting the house.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 21
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Bruce Moline/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 11/10/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 4328 N. Havana
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99223

NARRATIVE: On 11/10/07 at 6:43 A.M. the Spokane Fire Department responded 21 firefighters on 6 pieces of fire equipment to a report of a house on fire at 4328 N. Havana. Fire crews discovered a large two story home with fire enveloping the front porch area and extending to the porch roof above. Crews were successful in keeping the fire out of the interior of the home and quickly brought the fire under control within 5 minutes. Crews remained on the scene for approximately 2 hours making sure the fire was dead out. This activity involved the crews cutting apart the porch roof and using their thermal imaging camera to ensure that any embers remaining were thoroughly extinguished. No one was present at the home while firefighters were on the scene. A fire department investigator is currently looking into the cause of the fire. At this time, it appears that the fire began on the porch floor outside the home. This investigation will continue throughout the day. There were no injuries to firefighters at this incident. The dwelling sustained heavy fire damage to the front porch and roof areas. There was also smoke damage throughout the structure.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Under investigation by Spokane Fire Department investigators.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Heavy fire damage to the front porch and porch roof. Smoke damage throughout the interior of the home.
DOLLAR LOSS: 10,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 21
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Beating the odds!

Thanks to Frank W. for this picture that really illustrates the difference in campaign funding. Also, if you see any Mary Verner signs out there on public property, feel free to pull them. They are being collected at the union office.

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Craig Cornelius
DATE OF INCIDENT: 11/8/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: E. 222 Hoffman Ave
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: On November 8, 2007 at 2313 hours, the Spokane Fire Department received a call for a reported garage fire. The Combined Communication Center dispatched 6 fire apparatus to E. 222 Hoffman Ave. Pumper Ladder 13 arrived on the scene within 5 minutes. Lt. Jamie Newcomb reported that he had a fully involved detached garage fire and was assuming Command. Lt. Newcomb's crew advanced pre-connected hose lines to extinguish the fire while he directed the other incoming fire apparatus and personnel. The firefighters under the direction of Lt. Newcomb knocked down the fire within six minutes. The crews protected several cars that were parked near the garage and one exposure building to the east.

There were no injuries reported at this fire. A good deal of material was stored inside the garage and fire crews are expected to be on the scene for several hours removing the fire debris. The fire cause is still undetermined at this time. Early indicators are directing us towards an old wood stove that had been in use earlier this evening.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Still under investigation.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Total Loss to garage structure
DOLLAR LOSS: 20,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 24
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Congratulations Mayor Mary!

Great news for all of Spokane.

Hession prohibits media from his election night festivities...

Excluding people to the bitter end. At least he's consistent.

Mary Verner Election Night Gathering

If you helped with Mary's campaign and want to be with her when the election results come in, be at the Red Lion River Inn, 700 N Division, at 7:30 PM On Tuesday, November 6th, to wait for the election results. There will be snacks, drinks, and a no-host bar available.

FIre Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Bruce Moline
DATE OF INCIDENT: 11/2/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 3928 N. Elm
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99205

NARRATIVE: On 11/02/07 at 7:51 A.M. the Spokane Fire Department responded 18 firefighters on 3 engine companies, 1 ladder company, 1 pumper ladder company, 1 rescue unit and 2 battalion chiefs to 3928 N. Elm on a report of a structure fire. First in crews found a basement fire in progress. After stretching hose lines and ventilating windows, crews were able to search the entire dwelling and knock down the fire after approximately 15 minutes. There was one occupant present at the time of the fire and he made his way to safety on his own. Apparently, this occupant was sleeping when he heard the sound of something "breaking". This sound woke him and he then made his exit out of the house. The breaking sound turned out to be a glass aquarium that was in the basement. The glass became heated due to the close proximity of the fire and then shattered. After the fire was extinguished, it was found that there weren't any smoke detectors present. The public should be reminded that the fire department recommends a smoke detector on every level of the home outside sleeping areas including one inside each bedroom as well. Soon, we will be changing our clocks 1 hour back to standard time. This is also an excellent time to also check the condition of your smoke detectors. Please make sure they have fresh batteries and are in good working order. There were no injuries reported at this fire, however there were numerous tropical fish that perished because of the aquarium breaking and the heat of the fire. The Red Cross is assisting the family with lodging, clothing and food. The cause of this fire was found to be an overloaded circuit. The aquarium lighting system, pump and other accessories were found to be plugged into an electrical power strip along with other items plugged into this same strip. This exceeded the rated amperage of the circuit which caused excessive heat and ignited nearby combustibles. Damage to the basement was extensive and consisted of heat, water and smoke damage. The first floor above sustained heavy smoke damage as well. When using appliances, make sure of the circuit amperage ratings and never exceed them. If you would like more information on this incident please call the battalion chief office at 509-625-7020 or the investigation division at 509-625-7052 or 509-625-7053.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Overloaded electrical circuit. Nearby combustibles.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Extensive heat, smoke and water damage to the basement. Heavy smoke damage to the main level. There was also significant damage to furnishings and clothing.
DOLLAR LOSS: 50,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 18
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Two fire press releases from last night...

ISSUING OFFICER: Ken Kirsch/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/31/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2024 E. Sharp
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: On Wednesday, 10/31/07, at approximately 0149 hrs units of the City of Spokane Fire Department responded to 2024. E Sharp upon report of a structure fire. First arriving SFD units found light smoke coming from the front door of a one story, wood-frame, single- family residence. Firefighters advanced a pre-connected hose-line in the front door of the home and found a rapidly advancing fire in the kitchen. While hose-lines were advanced into the structure, other SFD crew members laddered the roof in case ventilation was needed, checked the residence for any other fire areas, and checked the attic to assure the fire had not extended to that area. First arriving crews also determined that all occupants of the home had escaped safely. The main body of fire was eventually confined to the kitchen area. The fire was knocked down within 10 minutes with overhaul of the fire area continuing for another 45 minutes. The Red Cross was requested to the scene to work with the occupants of the home as they will be displaced for at least the night. Fire crews remained on scene for approximately two hours. A total of 24 firefighters on 9 trucks battled this blaze. No injuries were reported to either firefighters or civilians.
PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of this kitchen fire was a pan catching on fire on the stove top. One of the tenants had put a pan with oil in it on the stove and it eventually ignited. The fire then spread from the pan to surrounding cup-boards and wall surfaces.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Damage to the home included fire and heat damage to the kitchen and nearby eating area, as well as smoke damage to the rest of the home. Some water damage was also evident. Total dollar loss is approximately $10,000.
DOLLAR LOSS: 10,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 24
MUTUAL AID: None Given



ISSUING OFFICER: Joel Fielder/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/31/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1417 West Cleveland
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: This morning, October 31, 2007 the Spokane Fire Department responded at approximately 3:32 AM to 1417 West Cleveland. The first crew on-scene reported smoke coming from the eaves of a 2-story, wood framed residence with fire showing from a second floor bedroom. Fire fighters aggressively attacked the fire from the interior of the structure while additional fire crews completed search and rescue, roof ventilation and salvage and overhaul. The fire was brought under control within 20 minutes. There were no reported injuries to civilians or firefighters. 9 fire companies with 28 firefighters responded to this fire and were on scene for approximately 2.5 hours. The occupants of the residence were alerted to the fire by their smoke detectors and were able to exit the structure safely.
PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire is under investigation by Fire Investigator Tom Oliver and he may be contacted at 625-7051
DAMAGE EXTENT: Fire damage was confined to the second floor with heat and smoke damage to a hallway leading to the upstairs.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 28
MUTUAL AID: None Given

"Show Me The Money...!"

I just checked with the Washington Public Disclosure Commission this morning.
www.pdc.wa.gov/

In 2007 Dennis Hession spent the following on Consultants & managers:
Polis Political Services - $17,500.00 (Olympia, WA)
Alliance Pacific, Inc - $43,489.36
Chelsea Wood - $12,290.00
I quit looking after this. This total is $73,179.63
There could be more, but some items don't have an explanation for the expense

In 2007 Mary Verner spent the following on Consultants & managers:
I went over this twice and couldn't find anything listed for consultation or management, so I leave that to you to search.

It doesn't take a genius to see that Mary makes her own "tough decisions" and Dennis Hession has someone else make his "tough decisions."

P.S. This doesn't count what Dennis Hession spent on consultants to make the spin or "tough decisions": on firing Jack Lynch & explaining the boondoggle know as the Matrix Study.

Doug Bacon

Mary Verner Puzzle Commercial!

If you've seen the Dennis Hession TV attack ad - "Mary Verner's a Puzzle," you probably are asking yourself these questions - "Did Hession really hire an Olympia PR firm to come up with these lame ads? What did he do with the rest of the money Avista gave him?"

Not only are these ads poorly done, there is nothing imaginative about them. Just the same old precanned attack stuff that any ad agency has sitting on the shelf. Only they forgot that after you attack your opponent you're supposed to tell why you are the better alternative. Well maybe they didn't forget. Maybe they just didn't have anything to say.

Dennis, not only have these ads backfired on you - you wasted Avista's money!

But, it is fun to see someone turn the attack ad on its head and come up with this positive ad I'm featuring in this post. It must have been fun to take Hession's gift of the "Mary Verner's a Puzzle" commercial and come up with this.

You probably won't see this on TV because Mary doesn't have that kinda cash. Dennis had to borrow money to get his on the air and Mary is a little more fiscally conservative than him, I guess. Anyway, enjoy!

Very cool video from Dean Pearcy

This is the intro video from the awards presentation put together by our AV guy Dean Pearcy. There are other videos available to watch on this "channel," as well. Enjoy.

Welcome to All!

When this blog first appeared, we had a lot of interested citizens tuning in. Now, thanks to the local media outlets, many of you are visiting the Local 29 blog for the first time. Welcome!

This election season has been interesting - for sure. Perhaps you've read snippets of Local 29 blog entries in the paper or on the news. If you like, you can check out these entries and see how attempts have been made to take things out of context (quite clumsily I might add). You can see the parts that have been left out (no simple story if you paint a complete picture of your "villain," I guess).

Thanks to the broadcast media, we have had a record number of "hits" (as the kids say). There are some misconceptions and news blackouts around some issues that are near and dear to us. And for those of you who are tuning in from these media sites, here are a few:

1. Mayor Hession says the union doesn't support him, but firefighters do. Shortly, we'll have a poll that either verifies or negates his claim - stay tuned. Dennis also said we didn't support him because he is a "tough negotiator." Funny, we hadn't negotiated with him! We don't support Dennis simply because he ignored our warnings about ambulance overbilling and other issues. We tried for a very long time to warn his administration about problems with AMR overbilling. He ignored us. We aren't worth listening to. Even when citizens have contacted us with their concerns to take to him - he won't listen. Mary Verner joined with us in our fight to expose the problems - and Hession's administration fought us in this quest for the truth.

2. Candidate XXX says he/she will fire the Fire Chief and that's why the union is backing this candidate. Hopefully when you peruse this blog, you will see that, for the most part, the union and the fire administration get along fairly well. Most of the time are goals are concurrent. Are there times when we disagree? You bet! But, we always work things out. I believe that we are all united in trying to provide the best service and protection for the citizens of Spokane. I'm not privvy to everyone's conversations with candidates, but why would we want to see anyone "fired"?

3. Giveback Days. We overwhelmingly voted, a couple of years ago, to work 24 hours for free each year for two years. Despite press releases and personal notes to the news media, to my knowledge, this has never been reported. One wonders why.

4. Our lost positions. I believe the number is 40. A few years back we had layoffs and staff reductions from attrition. The Spokesman-Review reports that due to Hession's financial acumen, he has created new fire positions. This is not true. We have hired 6 new firefighters to replace 6 retirees. But we're still down the 40 or so. No new positions. No return to previous staffing levels. Over 20 years, our call volume has more than doubled, while the number of firefighters has been reduced by 20%. Not good news for those of us who live in the city.

5. KREM News reported the other day that the two leading campaign donors for either Hession or Verner was our union and the city employee's union. This was wrong. Avista had us both beat in contributions to Hession's campaign. An interesting mistake.

OK, I didn't mean to bore you. You've read the quotes in the paper and heard them on yack radio, read for yourself what was written. If you have any questions, my email address is on the side. You are welcome to leave comments, as well.

Thanks again!

Press Release for Awards Ceremony

ISSUING OFFICER: Brian Schaeffer, Assistant Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/19/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Information
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 44 West Riverside
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: Last night, the Spokane Fire Department honored our own personnel and special community heroes during the 1st Annual Meritorious Awards Ceremony.

The following personnel were recognized for their recent promotions within the calendar year: Captain Jim Schaffer, Captain Ben Olson, Deputy Fire Marshal Brett Hatcher, Deputy Fire Marshal Tom Yergen and Deputy Fire Marshal Mike Miller

The citizen and Spokane City personnel listed below were honored for the following awards:

Jack Schoonover, a resident from Idaho, was recognized for an incident on June 16 when the vehicle he was driving (a tractor trailer carrying 4000 gallons of gasoline) was struck in the rear of the trailer by a passenger car which resulted in leaking gasoline and a subsequent fire. Realizing the immediate danger to the occupants of the vehicle and nearby businesses, Mr. Schoonover immediately moved the tractor trailer to a less-populated area and positioned it in the center of Ruby allowing fire crews to make a safe attack on the fire. Mr. Schoonover was directly responsible for preventing a catastrophe which may have resulted in severe property damage and probable fatalities and was awarded the CITIZEN COMMUNITY LIFE SAVING AWARD.
--------------
LETTER OF COMMENDATION:
Firefighters Jesse Ayotte and Patrick Sanders both received Letters of Commendation from the Fire Chief for special actions that demonstrated their commitment, competence and compassion.
--------------
The MEDAL OF VALOR award was awarded to Lieutenant Ryan Reding due to actions he took on September 20, 2006 at the State Street Apartment Fire. As companies were enroute it was reported that numerous persons were trapped on the upper floors of the building. On arrival, part of Engine 4's crew advanced a 2 ½ line through the front door and attempted to move down the basement stairs to extinguish the fire. Members were met with extreme amounts of fire and nearly un-tenable conditions. Lieutenant Reding remained on the first floor landing where he held the fire in check and protected the only means of egress route out of the building.

On December 3, 2006 Lieutenant Bill Schaech and Firefighter Ron Weston vent/entered/and searched a second floor bedroom without the protection of a hand-line while under heavy heat and smoke conditions at the scene of a residential structure fire. The men were able to locate and remove a young girl and carry her to awaiting paramedics
--------------
A SPECIAL UNIT CITATION was awarded to Captain Dave Haworth, FEO Calvin Groth, FEO Gary Holmes and FF Rick Pennington based on their actions on September 20, 2006. The members responded as the crew of Ladder 4 and arrived on the scene of the State Street Apartment fire with several persons reported trapped on the upper floors of the building. Ladder 4 split into teams A & B and began raising ladders to the windows of the second floor. Due to their efforts, 5 tenants of the building who were unable to escape due to interior conditions we successfully rescued. The crew was also responsible for rescuing one tenant from his basement apartment where he was transported to the Hospital.
--------------
SPECIAL UNIT CITATIONS awarded to SPD Officers:
On March 13th 2006 at 2:00AM a structure fire at 1923 W. Broadway was reported to Fire Dispatch by Police radio. The fire was discovered by Officer Zachary Dahle who then notified dispatch, asking for assistance from other patrol units. He then entered the front door and began yelling and pounding on apartment doors to awaken residents. He started with the upper unit as it appeared to be where the heaviest smoke was coming from. He was assisted within two-minutes by Officers: Derek Bishop, Frank Erhart, Scott Haney and Paul Gorman. Some of the Officers entered the upper unit with Dahle where they awakened and assisted three residents out of the structure. Gorman reported extremely thick smoke conditions and paint melting off walls in this unit. Officers also awakened residents from two other apartments and led them to safety. These Police Officers made a significant difference in the survival of the occupants any if not all of whom could have perished in the fire.
--------------
DISTINGUISHED CONDUCT AWARDS
On September 26, 2006 BC Bob Hanna was returning home in his department vehicle when he witnessed an SPD Motorcycle Officer strike a mini-van at a high rate of speed. The inertia threw the officer several feet and injured him critically. Chief Hanna calmly reported the incident and requested appropriate resources from his radio and immediately took command of the situation by protecting the scene and triaging patients. Chief Hanna delivered medical care to the injured officer, secured his weapon and protected him until additional responders arrived.

On April 8, 2006 a single car drove off of the 5th floor of the River Park Square Garage. The vehicle ended up on its top with one female trapped inside the vehicle. According to the nominator, while everyone involved at this scene worked very hard and cohesively. The recipient distinguished himself by remaining in the vehicle, giving the victim every possible chance of survival. The patient was still seat belted in, unconscious but breathing with multiple blunt force trauma injuries, in an upside down position with her right arm pinned underneath the vehicle. Lt. Andy McLeod was able to maintain an airway and start an IV on the patient, in a vehicle interior that was severely compromised. All patient care and assessment was performed by Lt. McLeod while he was in a prone or supine position. Lt. McLeod remained focused on his patient and gave her every possible chance of survival.
--------------
MERITORIOUS SERVICE AWARDS
The first member retired in March and his career spanned 30 years where he served as a FF, PM, LT, CAPT and Commissioned Fire Investigator. In his 12 year tenure as the Captain overseeing Investigations Mike Zambryski attained CFI credentials and literally raised the level of performance and professionalism for current and future investigators in the Department. His career is an illustration of commitment, excellence and dedication to service.

The second member was nominated due to his 32 year record of providing outstanding service to the SFD. In his career he has been known throughout the job as a role model and mentor for many junior members. In the nomination there were dozens of examples which rise to the level of this award; however the main theme in all were that Jack Tritt simply has demonstrated in his career that he has always worked to make the lives of everyone he touched better.

DVD copies of the event will be available within the next 2 weeks for media if requested.
PROBABLE CAUSE: N/A
DAMAGE EXTENT: N/A
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE:
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Awards Ceremony

Congratulations to all of last night's award recipients. What an amazing turnout for this event (I guess that is a theme lately). I think everybody did a great job. Besides recognition for the award winner, it's nice to see everyone (mgmt and labor) working together to pull this thing off. We're going to have a link (I hope) on the website to download the nomination form for next year's ceremony. Also, there's one you can download on your city email acct from Brian Schaeffer. If there is a link to the video, I will post it here. I'm sure it will be repeated on channel 95, but I'm not sure when.

Media Bias 101

Hopefully, you had a chance to watch the local news’ take on the debate and the alleged assault by Mayor Hession’s wife. I find it always interesting to see how a story is put together.

First, KXLY started with a montage of the debate – with Hession making strong accusations and Mary not saying very much. And if you saw the debate, you know it was just the opposite!

The headline of the article on the KXLY website is “Fallout from mayoral mudslinging hits wife, firefighters.” A lady holding a sign critical of Hession claims she was assaulted by the mayor’s wife. So is this mud #1? What about firefighters and mud? The mayor’s wife grabbed one of our firefighter’s hands because she was clapping for Mary. So is this the flip side, the balance – that somehow a firefighter put herself in the grip of the mayor’s wife’s hand? Bizarre.

Hession is making political hay out of his wife’s alleged assault(s) upon others – playing the victim. Interesting that his wife all but admits that she did assault these folks – just not as “hard” as they’re claiming. Look for many anti-firefighter and pro-Hession letters to the editor around this issue in the next few days. I would wager that the Hession campaign’s PR firms are busy crafting them right now.

Lastly on bias, it’s interesting that at this event (according to KXLY) there were Hession supporters and then there were “protestors.” Protestors?!? Maybe next they will be calling those who don’t support Dennis “insurgents.”

I don’t know about you, but I think my wife would be pretty angry at people who didn’t like me if I were running for mayor, so I can understand Mrs. Hession’s feelings. And this election is not about Dennis Hession’s wife. Whatever happens, as far as assault charges go, shouldn’t have any effect on the election one way or the other. It’s still the policies, the strengths and weaknesses of each candidate that should decide this thing - I hope. It’s just too bad KXLY couldn’t have filed a straight and unbiased story on this and let it go.

However, it was nice to hear the always right-purty Karina Shagren quote from the blog and purr “meow” and “snarl.” Ahhhhhh. Too bad the producers didn’t follow with a cat food commercial. Hey, that’s a freebie KXLY!

1743 10/11/07 Addendum. Check out the latest on KXLY. They have assigned a Spokane Sheriff Deputy to the case and this is the first line:

"Instead of solving rapes, murders and burglaries, a Major Crimes detective with the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office is now investigating a police report that Spokane Mayor Dennis Hession’s wife shoved a supporter of candidate Mary Verner so hard her bursitis flared up."

One question for Karina or whomever wrote the copy - Did the Hession PR team provide you with this line, or are you moonlighting for them? Beautiful!

Last night's debate...

Wow, a great showing by Local 29! We packed in a bunch of folks. Great job Rochelle and Frank W! Rochelle even had her hand grabbed by the mayor's wife because Rochelle was clapping. Meeeeeoooooow! Snarrrrrrrrrl!

It was a very entertaining debate. Actually Dennis Hession did much better than in previous debates. But, the impartial observer would have come out endorsing Mary, just like we have, after watching the two spar.

One funny line went something like this:

"I hope my legacy is that people will know that I left my integrity at city hall." - DH

One unbelievable line:

"It was the Fire Department that brought the AMR overbilling to my attention." - DH

Hats off to both MV and DH. Thanks for debating over and over again. It seems like every night you two are on stage someplace. Keep this up and you might displace CATS as the longest running show in history.

Another Chance

Local 29 has the opportunity to really help Spokane have the most articulate, most hardworking, most intelligent and ethical mayor the city has seen in recent memory. Mary Verner continually tries to do what's best for our citizens, and 99 and 44/100th percent of the time it coincides with what's best for us.

You could be a vital part of Spokane history simply by helping just a little to get Mary elected. Write a letter to the editor. Doorbell. Wave signs. Talk to your friends and neighbors. You know how Mary went to bat for our citizens with the AMR overbilling. She was not a very popular person with the Hession administration for doing so, but her work proved what we were saying all along. There are many other examples of Mary standing up for what's right in Spokane and standing up for us. If you don't know these stories, talk to Greg, Rochelle or Don Waller.

You have a chance to help a really good person, so she can do a really good job as our mayor. We owe it to Mary, ourselves and our citizens.

There are some special events planned in the near future. Some sound like a lot of fun. Please call Rochelle at 999-2525 or Don at 991-6959.

I can't tell you on the blog what these events are because it is read by people who are working for the Hession campaign.

Thanks, John

OK HERE IT IS! WHAT YOU'VE BEEN ASKING FOR!!

The phone hasn't stopped ringing. "When can I listen to the KPBX mayoral debates?" "Will they rebroadcast them?" Unfortunately, the debates took place during this Tuesday's union meeting. So the throngs at the meeting were not able to listen or attend.

THIS JUST IN!!!! - You can listen to the debates on KPBX on these dates!

Part One of the debate (city council candidates) on 91.9 FM -
Monday Oct 22nd - 10 am and 7 pm.

Part Two of the debate (mayor and city council president) on 91.9 FM-
Wednesday Oct 24th - 10 am and 7 pm.

AND AS IF THAT ISN'T ENOUGH!!!!!! HOW ABOUT THIS?

Part One of the debate (city council candidates) on 91.1 FM -
Tuesday Oct 23rd - 10 am and 7 pm.

Part Two of the debate (mayor and city council president) on 91.1 FM-
Thursday Oct 25th - 10 am and 7 pm.

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Bruce Moline/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/10/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1907 W. Sharp
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: On 10/10/07 at 3:15 A.M. members of the Spokane Fire Department responded to a report of a house fire located at 1907 W. Sharp. First companies to arrive found a wood frame house with a large amount of smoke coming from the roof area. Crews began to attack the fire from the inside while other fire crews were on the roof cutting holes to effectively "ventilate" the dwelling. It was soon learned that all 6 occupants had made their escape safely from the house. Firefighters on the inside were relieved after the roof holes were started as this lifted the smoke and heat which provided better visibility and a quicker route to the main body of the fire. At this point however, the fire had extended itself throughout the attic space and had gained a foothold near the eaves on the east side of the house. After 20 minutes the fire was contained. This fire was caused by an electrical malfunction discovered in wiring on the main level. Two passersby noticed the fire and immediately began to knock on the door to alert the occupants inside. At the same time, smoke detectors had activated. Crews remained on the scene until 5:30 A.M. extinguishing hot spots and ensuring that no smoldering material remained. The Red Cross arrived and assisted the occupants with lodging. A total of 22 firefighters on 3 engine companies, 2 ladder companies, a rescue unit and 2 battalion chiefs fought this blaze. There were no injuries to firefighters or civilians. It was pointed out to the family that they did an excellent job in making sure their smoke detectors were in "working order" and that this likely also contributed to their safe exit from the home.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Electrical.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Extensive heat damage to the attic. Extensive smoke and water damage to the main floor. Moderate heat damage to the main floor.
DOLLAR LOSS: 60,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 22
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Bruce Moline/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/10/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2126 W. Grace
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99208

NARRATIVE: On 10/10/07 at 5:33 A.M. members of the Spokane Fire Department responded to a report of a garage on fire at 2126 W. Grace. Upon arrival, fire crews found a fully involved garage that was not attached to the house but near an alley and power lines. A rapid advancement of hose lines was conducted and the fire was found to be burning not only the garage but also burning through power lines. This created an extremely hazardous situation as the power lines were energized with electricity and they had dropped on a metallic fence which created a dangerous situation for neighbors and bystanders. Fire crews immediately sealed off both ends of the alley and prohibited anyone from entering this area. A call was put in to the Avista company to respond. Firefighters had this fire contained after 15 minutes but the long process of mop up and overhaul would carry on for a longer period of time. A tenant who lives in the adjacent house was using the garage for a work space and had been using candles to help illuminate the area inside in order for her to do her work. The candles had been placed in a combustible plastic holder and then she had returned to the home to retire for the evening, forgetting that the candles were still burning. The Spokane Fire Department would like to remind citizens that if you must use candles, keep them in sturdy holders that are non-combustible and keep a clearance of at least 3 feet from anything that can burn. Never use candles in bedrooms, people fall asleep and fires happen. And finally, never use them in rooms that are unattended by an adult. Luckily, nobody was injured in this fire. A total of 22 firefighters on 4 engine companies, 1 ladder company, a pumper ladder company, a rescue unit and 2 battalion chiefs fought this blaze.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Candles left unattended.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The garage and contents were a total loss.
DOLLAR LOSS: 30,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 22
MUTUAL AID: None Given

Free tickets for mayoral and council debates...

On Monday, October 15th KXLY will hold a live debate at The Bing Crosby Theatre. It will also be telecast on CH 4 from 7-8 p.m. that evening. There will be a panel of media people asking questions of the mayoral candidates & they will take questions from the audience (believe you will have to fill out a card w/question at the theatre). They will also be taking questions via email at the same time.

Tickets are FREE & available NOW at three sites.
The Bing Crosby Theatre, The Spokesman-Review office and the KXLY studio on W. Boone (only site not right downtown & has free parking)

It would be helpful fo Mary to have a large number of her supporters in the crowd. There are some rules, i.e. no signs, no candidate t-shirts, etc & I know they will share those w/individuals when they pick up tickets. Apparently oen can ask for a number of tickets at one time so I'm hoping some of your members will get this message out a GET SOME TICKETS!

Call

325-5041