Fire Press Release Five fer

Go on vacation for a week and we get an extraordinary amount of fires. Back to work on Sunday, so be ready for the slowdown - John


ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Dave Haworth
DATE OF INCIDENT: 4/2/2010
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 4224 N. Monroe
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99205

NARRATIVE: At 1:25 AM on Friday, April 2nd the Spokane Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 4224 N. Monroe. The caller, a passerby, reported smoke and flames visible. Pumper-Ladder 13 arrived within four minutes and confirmed there were flames coming from the front window and door of a single story duplex. Battalion Chief Dave Haworth arrived on-scene concurrently with 13's and directed them to begin fire attack. As other crews arrived they were assigned to search the main floor and basements of both units of the duplex for victims. One adult female occupant was assisted from the uninvolved unit and evaluated for injuries. She was uninjured. There were no other victims found. The fire was quickly knocked down and confined to the living room and dining room of the fire unit, with heavy heat and smoke damage throughout the remainder of that unit. The uninvolved unit received minor smoke damage.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department's Special Investigation Unit.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The fire unit received heavy fire and smoke damage, destroying much of the contents.
DOLLAR LOSS: 40,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 27
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

ISSUING OFFICER: Dave Haworth/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 4/1/2010
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2513 N Regal
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: On April 1, at 2015 hours, the Spokane Fire Dept responded 4 engines, 2 ladders, 1 rescue, and 2 battalion chiefs to a reported structure fire at 2513 N Regal. The first arriving company, SE8, reported heavy smoke and fire coming from a vacant 3 story wood/brick structure. Due to the large volume of fire and the fact that this structure was vacant, the decision was made to attack the fire in a defensive manner. Heavy hose streams and an aerial device were used to apply large volumes of water from several positions. A collapse zone was established to protect firefighters should the walls fail, which in fact did occur. The fire was extinguished in just under 2 hours. There were no injuries to firefighters or civilians.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause is currently under investigation by the Spokane Fire Dept Special Investigations Unit.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Damage was confined to the structure, which was a total loss.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 25
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

ISSUING OFFICER: Captain C Jones
DATE OF INCIDENT: 3/31/2010
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1021 E 41st
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: The Spokane City Fire Department responded firefighting crews and their apparatus to the South Hill for a structure fire at 1021 E. 41st Avenue. The alarm was reported at 07:17 hundred hours this morning, Wednesday, March 31st, 2010. The first arriving fire company reported light smoke coming from the front door of a single-family residence. They reported further that they were going to stretch a hose line to the front door and make entry to locate and extinguish the fire. As additional firefighting resources began arriving on scene they were given various assignments, which included ventilation of the house and pulling additional hose leads to protect the firefighting crews who had already made entry into the fire structure. Other firefighting crews supplied water from the hydrant a block away. The fire structure is a one story single family dwelling with a full basement. The first arriving crew discovered that the fire was in the basement, and it was confined to a laundry dryer. A quick knock down of the fire was achieved with a minimal amount of water.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the morning fire is being investigated by members of the Spokane City Fire Department's Special Investigation Unit.
DAMAGE EXTENT: No fire damage to the structure had occurred due to the fire being contained within the dryer unit itself. In addition to the dryer, damage was confined to smoke damage throughout the basement and the first floor.
DOLLAR LOSS: 5,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 22
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

ISSUING OFFICER: Bruce Moline/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 3/29/2010
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 3009 E. 53rd
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99223

NARRATIVE: On Monday March 29th, 2010 at 9:39 P.M. the Spokane Fire Department responded 3 Engine Companies, 1 Ladder Company, 1 Pumper Ladder Company, a Rescue Unit and 2 Battalion Chiefs to a structure fire in an apartment complex located at 3009 E. 53rd. Upon arrival, first in fire crews found a fire located on an upper floor balcony burning and extending into the exterior wall of the apartment complex. A quick aggressive fire attack using ground ladders, preconnected hose lines, a thermal imaging camera, self contained breathing apparatus, axes and pike poles resulted in a quick knock down of the fire and this limited the fires spread to the interior of the apartment complex where there was a single occupant sleeping. The occupant of this apartment unit was unharmed even though the apartment unit was not equipped with a smoke detector. Due to an alert neighbor who noticed the fire and called 911, and the quick response and aggressive actions of the firefighters, the fire was kept small. Because the fire was quickly engulfing the exterior siding of this apartment, the fire was only minutes away from vertically extending into the soffit space and attic above where the outcome could have been very different for not only this occupant, but for all of the occupants in this complex. A total of 19 firefighters responded to this alarm. The fire cause at this time appears to have started from a discarded cigarette near a planter and wooden bench kept on the exterior balcony. Many people are of the belief that planter material in a container is made of dirt and non-flammable and therefore capable of extinguishing a cigarette. This is not the case. Planter material is in fact very flammable as it is composed of combustible fuel and because this fuel is in fine form, it readily ignites and will sustain flaming combustion. The Spokane Fire Department would like to remind everyone to exercise caution when using ignited materials and to extinguish these materials properly. There were no injuries to firefighters or civilians at this fire.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Improperly discarded cigarette.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Fire damage to exterior balcony decking, bench, exterior siding and insulation.
DOLLAR LOSS: 750
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 19
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

ISSUING OFFICER: Joel Fielder/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 3/22/2010
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 5408 North Washington
CITY: Spokane
STATE:
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: On March 22, 2010 the Spokane Fire Department responded at approximately 7:22 PM to 5408 North Washington on a reported structure fire. The first crew on-scene reported smoke and fire showing at the northeast corner of the 1.5 story, wood framed and concrete block, single family residence. The structure's basement was fully involved with fire and the fire was advancing to the main floor area via an open stair way leading from the basement. The fire was also entering the attic space through a gable vent on the structure's east side. Fire fighters aggressively performed an interior attack on the fire while additional fire crews completed search and rescue, roof ventilation and salvage and overhaul. The fire was brought under control within 30 minutes. One firefighter was transported to a local hospital for a possible leg injury. Nine fire companies with 27 firefighters and 2 chief officers responded to this fire and were on scene for approximately 2.0 hours.

Four adults were displaced by the fire and are being assisted by the Spokane Chapter of the American Red Cross.

The Spokane Fire Department would like to take this opportunity to state the importance of installing properly working smoke detectors through out your home. The occupant's of the home were alerted to the fire in the basement by a smoke detector and were able to safely exit the structure.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire is under investigation by The Spokane Fire Department Special Investigation Unit.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Fire damage was confined to the basement with heat and smoke damage through out the rest of the structure.
DOLLAR LOSS: 60,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 29
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

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Council Connection on City Channel 5 - The EMS Levy

Click here to see when this is playing today. No commercial interruptions, just sweet, sweet Council Connection!

Doorbelling Event This Saturday!

Starts at 0945 at the union office. Check your email for further instructions.

Car Wash and Hot Dog Fundraiser for John Knighten

Carwash/Hotdog Fundraiser for John on Saturday. At Shan's Grill, starting @ 10:00 and going as long as the dirty cars keep coming in!. Hoping for decent weather. Carwashers needed - families welcome!

YesEMS website up and running

There will be more added to it as we go along. If you have any pictures or hear of any media around the EMS Levy, email me and we'll get it on the site.

Great KXLY story on Knighten!

Spokane County Paramedic Protocol Provider App.

Hey all you Spokane County Paramedical types, the owner/operator of Paramedic Protocol Provider just emailed me to say that Spokane County's protocols are now available in this iPhone/iPod touch application. This has been in the works for months. Here's more.

Awesome website for John Knighten!

John's brother made this website and it is excellent. We still have the account at the credit union, but there's an easy way to donate via PayPal on this website too, a blog and a lot of great stuff. John is always in our thoughts and prayers, and this website is great not only for John but for those of us who know him. It's not the same as being with him on-shift, but it's still very good to check out.

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Bob Green/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 3/17/2010
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 6014 N Howard
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99205

NARRATIVE: The Spokane City Fire Dept. responded fire fighting crews and their apparatus to 6014 N Howard at 10:35 in the morning on Wednesday, March 17th, for a reported structure fire. The first arriving fire company reported smoke coming from the front door of a single story wood/frame residence and they reported further that they were going to stretch a hose line to the front door and attempt to make entry into the residence to locate and extinguish the fire. Additional fire fighting resources began arriving on scene and as they arrived they were given various assignments which included horizontal and vertical ventilation of the house, a back-up hose line to protect the fire fighters who had already made entry, water supply, RIT team for fire fighter's who might be injured or become lost inside the structure, an additional hose line for fire attack, and Safety. The building on fire was fairly small and the fire was in one room of the house so fire fighters were able to quickly locate the seat of the fire and get a fast knock down of the rapidly growing fire. A search of the home was conducted even though neighbors reported that all of the residents were safely outside; the search confirmed the neighbor's report. The house was being leased by a couple; the female was not at home when the fire broke out however the male was in the house and he was asleep. The male resident is partially paralyzed and is dependant on a wheelchair. He credits his service dog with waking him up by barking and pulling on the bedding, and by doing so this dedicated and resourceful dog quite probably saved the man's life. Red Cross volunteers were on scene to assist the couple with temporary lodging and needed supplies. There were no reports of any injuries to civilians or to the fire fighters at the scene. The fire was contained to the room of origin but that room sustained heavy fire damage as did the contents located in that room. Electrical service to the structure was disconnected by Avista since most of the electrical circuits inside the residence were damaged by the fire. Until all of the electrical and the structural repairs are finished inside the building it will not be able to be used by anyone as a residence. The cause of the mid-morning fire is being investigated by members of the Spokane City Fire Dept.'s Special Investigation Unit. Six pieces of fire fighting apparatus and two Command vehicles delivered 23 fire fighters to the scene.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Under investigation at this time.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Room of origin but with collateral damage outside of that single room.

DOLLAR LOSS: 10,000.00
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 23
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Larry Mummey
DATE OF INCIDENT: 3/16/2010
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2217 E Sprague Avenue
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99202

NARRATIVE: The Spokane City Fire Dept. responded fire apparatus and fire fighting crews to 2217 E Sprague Avenue at 0533 in the morning on Tuesday March 16, 2010, for a reported structure fire. Fire crews responding to this incident reported smoke coming from the structure.
The first arriving fire crew reported a one story wood/frame dwelling that had been converted into multiple apartments. They reported fire in the southwest corner of the building. Assignments were made to the other responding fire companies by the officer of that first arriving fire apparatus and as those companies began arriving on scene the crews went about undertaking their assigned tasks. In an aggressive and coordinated effort, fire attack hose lines were advanced into the structure at the same time that other firefighters, on the roof, were cutting vertical ventilation holes in the structure's roof. Other crews were sent inside to pull ceilings, open up walls and search for any possible victims,. Four residents were removed from the structure. Other personnel were assigned as back-up for the crews inside. A fire crew was also assigned as the "rapid intervention team"; a safety mandated unit that is available for rescue of injured, lost, or trapped fire fighters.
The quick attack of Spokane Engine 7 extinguished the main body of fire. While the extinguishment of the fire was dramatic and quick the fire still caused serious damage to the involved apartment. Once the fire had been darkened down the labor intensive task of overhaul began as fire fighters went about digging out the hidden fire from those concealed spaces that are inherent inside of every structure. Fire damage was mostly confined to the involved unit. There was also some smoke damage and water damage to apartments on the main floor. The electrical supply to the building was disconnected, by Avista Utilities because of the damage. Red Cross representatives were requested to the scene and they were in the process of assisting the tenants with temporary lodging and supplies. There were no reported injuries to any of the fire fighters at the scene or the tenants of the dwelling who were able to get out safely along with their pet dog. Investigation into the cause of the fire is being conducted by a member of the Spokane City Fire Dept.'s Special Investigation Unit.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Under investigation
DAMAGE EXTENT: Smoke and Fire damage to the involved unit. Moderate smoke damage to the other first floor units. Minor water damage to the structure. Ventilation hole through the roof. Extinguishment/search for fire extension damage to first floor units, attic and roof.
DOLLAR LOSS: 10,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 30
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

Change your clock tonight and your smoke detector battery.

Click to download this coloring page. Fun for the whole family.

Don't forget to pick up YES EMS yard signs!

This is what our billboards are going to look like. They will be up by the time ballots go out. Don't forget to make a contribution to the Citizens for EMS fund if you can.

Door hangers are on their way!

Front and back sides of YesEms hangers. Click to view a larger jpeg.

Great job stair climbers!! Nice video from KREM 2!

Newsletter Deadline

March 4th!

Incidentally, this is the only day of the year that is also a command. I learned this from a book of riddles and jokes purchased through My Weekly Reader in 4th grade.

As always, your pictures, stories, jokes and riddles are welcome in the WORKER.

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Craig Cornelius
DATE OF INCIDENT: 2/19/2010
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2724 E. Boone Ave.
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99202

NARRATIVE: At 7:07 PM on Friday, February 19, 2010 the Spokane Fire Department responded 5 engines, 2 ladder trucks, 1 rescue truck and 2 Battalion Chiefs to a reported house fire at 2724 E. Boone Ave. The first crew on scene reported heavy fire and smoke from all openings of a single family house. While crews attacked the fire, other crews performed a search of the house to confirm there was no one trapped inside. The fire was knocked down within 10 minutes but crews remained on scene for several hours removing burned contents and pulling ceilings and walls, checking for any hidden pockets of fire. One civilian was treated by Spokane Fire Department paramedics for moderate smoke inhalation and was and transported to Sacred Heart Medical Center. It was not known at the time of this report whether the 35 year old male victim was an occupant of the house. Damage to the house was extensive and will not be able to be occupied until repairs can be made.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The fire was investigated by the Spokane Fire Department's Special Investigation Unit and determined to be accidentally caused by carelessly discarded smoking material.
DAMAGE EXTENT: There was extensive damage to the house and its contents.
DOLLAR LOSS: 75000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 28
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Bob Green/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 2/17/2010
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 3004 N. Crestline
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99208

NARRATIVE: The Spokane City Fire Dept. dispatched fire fighting crews and their apparatus to 3004 N. Crestline at 11:38 hrs. on Wednesday, February 17th, to a reported structure fire. The first arriving fire company reported a 2 story wood/frame apartment building with heavy fire showing out the second floor windows at the rear of the structure. The Officer in charge of that first in company immediately began making assignments to the other in-coming fire crews and as those apparatus arrived on scene the fire fighters began working on those assigned tasks. Those initial assignments included fire attack, securing a hydrant for water supply, laddering the building, search and rescue, horizontal and vertical ventilation, a dedicated back-up hose line to protect those fire fighters who have entered the building to begin fire attack in the building, exposure protection, safety, and the State mandated Rapid Intervention Team whose sole purpose on the fire scene is to be in a position to rescue injured or lost fire fighters. This was the second fire to occur in this building within the last 5 weeks, early in January of this year a second alarm fire tore through another second floor apartment on the opposite side of the building from today's fire. The entire building had been vacated because of the damage suffered in the first fire, utilities had been disconnected, and many of the windows were boarded up. The interior of this building presented fire fighters with multiple safety concerns since areas of the floor were missing and the light-weight construction of the flat roof structural assembly had been seriously compromised by the first fire. The fire was contained and extinguished as all of the pre-assigned tasks came together and were completed. There were no reports of any injuries to the fire fighters at the scene or to any civilians. Fire damage to the involved apartment was severe and the structural components of the floor and roof systems were further weakened. The long-term viability of the building will need to be determined by the building's owner and for the short-term the building will once again be secured and boarded up. The Spokane City Fire Dept.'s Special Investigation Unit was summoned to the fire scene to determine the cause of this fire. Twenty six fire fighters were delivered to this incident on 6 pieces of fire fighting apparatus, 2 Command vehicles, and 1 fire investigation truck.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Under investigation.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The fire unit was severly damaged and the integrity of the entire building is questionable because of the combined damage from today's fire and the fire which had occurred in early January of this year.
DOLLAR LOSS: 75,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 26
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

Spokane Firefighter's Scott Firefighter Stair Climb Events Approaching!

Hey all you news media folks - A special invitation! Come on down to the Bank of America Building (601 W Riverside) and then climb on up some stairs with some firefighters!

February 19th (between 5 and 7 am) Spokane Firefighters will be on hand to lend you a hand climbing a few flights while you're "geared up" in firefighter garb. It should be fun! Just let them know you're interested, so they can bring some appropriately sized gear.

Also, the Spokane Firefighter team is going to be hosting, thanks to the generosity of David's Pizza, a fundraiser on February 20th at David's Pizza (829 E. Boone). The money raised will go to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

The Scott Firefighter Stair Climb is an annual event to raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. It's a race up Seattle's 937-foot tall Columbia Center's 69 flights of stairs. 1500 firefighters participate to raise funds to fight deadly blood diseases. This year it will take place March 7th. You can find more information here.

For information regarding the David's Pizza fundraiser, or the Spokane media climb, please contact Jason Keen at 208-640-4240.

Jack Greenamyer - 45 years of service and protection... Part Two

Jack Greenamyer - 45 years of service and protection... Through excellence!

Where were you in February, 1965?

Jack Greenamyer had just joined the Spokane Fire Department.

Monday, February 15th marks Jack's 45th year of fighting fires for the City of Spokane. Jack is the Fire Lt of Engine 3 on D Shift. Engine 3 is the busiest fire engine in the state, according to the 2009 Fire House survey.

Jack is on-shift for his anniversary. Please come by on Monday afternoon and wish Jack well. Ask him what he has planned for 50; he may just get the day off.

NEWS COVERAGE OF HILLYARD FIRE

KXLY:



KHQ:

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: AC Schaeffer
DATE OF INCIDENT: 2/13/2010
INCIDENT TYPE: Multiple Alarms
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 5108 North Market
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99207

NARRATIVE: On Saturday, February 13, 2010 at 5:38 AM, 6 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 1 Senior Ladder, 4 Engines, 1 Heavy Rescue under the direction of Battalion Chief Dave Haworth and Steve Sabo, responded to a Structure Fire at 5108 North Market (Alaskan Tavern).

While enroute to the incident, companies were notified there were reports that civilians may be trapped on the second floor and confirmed that fire was showing. Spokane Firefighters arrived quickly to find a two-story "taxpayer" type building with a full basement. The first companies described the building as a wood-frame with heavy smoke showing from the rear of the building. The first due Engine and Ladder went to work immediately after arriving and secured water supply and stretched a line in attempt to control the fire's progress toward the living areas in the building. Simultaneously the first-due Ladder Company searched each apartment unit under heavy smoke/fire conditions for savable civilians. All companies assigned on the first alarm were immediately dedicated to searching the building while trying to suppress the fire's progress when they arrived. Chief Haworth arrived and assumed command at 5:45 and struck a second alarm, two-minutes after his arrival. A third alarm was eventually struck at 6:18 AM and filled out the incident's resources to include; 10 Engines, 3 Ladders, 1 Heavy Rescue, 9 Command Staff , 1 AMR Ambulance and Supervisor and Red Cross.

Swift and decisive action by first arriving fire crews allowed a successful search of the entire building which resulted in a confirmation that all six occupants were outside and accounted for. The fire was declared under control in five hours and no injuries were reported.

Off-Duty and Mutual Aid Firefighters were utilized to staff SFD Stations and respond to simultaneous incidents during the Market Street Fire.

For continuous updated information and *Photos* Please Refer to our Blog (http://www.spokanefire.blogspot.com) and our Facebook Page.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The fire is under investigation by the Fire Department's SIU. The displaced families are receiving assistance from the Inland NW Chapter of the American Red Cross.

DAMAGE EXTENT: Damage was limited to the building itself and the fire did not extend to adjacent buildings or into the railway area. The building was a total loss. Railway traffic was halted during the incident and was reopened after the incident was declared under control.

DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 52
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Craig Cornelius / Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 2/11/2010
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 37th and Rebecca
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP: 99223

NARRATIVE: This evening, February 11, 2010, at 2109 hours, the Spokane Fire Department dispatched a total of 6 fire apparatus and 2 chief officers to a reported structure fire located at 37th and Rebecca.

Engine 14 from Fire Station 14, arrived on the scene a little over 4 minutes after being dispatched. Lt. Doug Dodson reported that he had a single story vacant structure with heavy smoke showing from the boarded up windows. He and his crew advanced a pre-connected hose line to the rear of the structure to attack the fire. The next arriving officer assumed Command and had arriving crews pull plywood from the windows and doors to assist in the extinguishment of the fire.

Crews gaining entry into the structure found a well seated fire that had worked its way into the ceiling and attic areas. "Tongue and Groove" wood used in the ceilings along with remodeled sections of the home made access to the fire difficult. These conditions kept crews working for several hours in the extinguishment of the fire. Extensive fire damage finished destroying this vacant home. The cause is still under investigation at this time. A total of 22 Firefighters responded to this incident. There were no reported injuries.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Cause is still under investigation.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Extensive fire damage finished destroying this vacant home.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 22
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

Lunch (tomato soup) succombs...

A series of back-to-back emergency calls, and some miscommunication, led to the demise of lunch at Stn 3 yesterday. Remains are interred at an undisclosed superfund site. RIP.

Oh tomato soup
A dream of delicious lunch
Turned nightmare of stench

Fare thee well wholesome goodness.

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Bob Green/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 2/10/2010
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 903 E. Rich
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99207

NARRATIVE: The Spokane City Fire Dept. dispatched fire fighting crews and their apparatus to 903 E. Rich at 12:22 AM on Wednesday, February 10th, to a reported structure fire. As the first arriving fire unit was nearing the scene they reported large amounts of smoke being visible in the night sky. Once that unit reached the scene they reported that there was heavy smoke coming from a 2 story, townhouse style, wood/frame, side-by-side duplex and that they were preparing to gain entry into the structure. Additional units began arriving on scene shortly after and they were given assignments that included; laddering the building, searching the structure for anyone who might be inside, fire attack, back-up hose lines to protect those fire fighters who were going into the building to locate and extinguish the fire, horizontal and vertical ventilation, water supply, safety, and the mandated Rapid Intervention Team for the protection of all fire fighters involved in the work at the incident scene. Further reports from the crews who were inside the building indicated that the fire was in the basement and that it was spreading upward through the construction openings and void spaces that are present in all buildings. Crews who were on the first floor began opening walls in an effort to cut off the fire's upward spread and because of their aggressive actions, in concert with the actions of the crews in the basement, the fire was quickly darkened down. Once the fire had been knocked down the labor intensive job of searching for signs of hidden fire in other parts of the building began. Both units of the duplex were in the process of being vacated by their tenants so very little interior furnishings and/or furniture were present, which made the fire fighters overhaul and salvage work a little less demanding. There were no reports of any injuries to the fire fighters at the scene or to any civilians. Damage to the fire unit was severe in the basement where some of the floor joists had actually burnt away thus weakening the structural supports for that entire side of the duplex. The unit that burned will not be habitable until major repair work is completed. Fire fighters working on the first floor in that unit reported very spongy flooring and crews were cautioned to avoid certain areas on that first floor out of concerns that the floor might collapse. Smoke and heat damage were evident on the first and second floors. There was some additional smoke damage to the neighboring unit caused by the smoke migrating from the burning unit; however that side of the duplex should be able to be occupied. The Spokane Fire Dept.'s Special Investigation Unit was requested to respond to this incident to determine the cause of this early morning fire. They were on scene soon after the fire was extinguished and began their investigation work. They were to return to the scene to continue their task once the sun comes up. Twenty three fire fighters were delivered to this incident on 6 pieces of fire fighting apparatus, 2 Command vehicles, and 1 fire investigation truck.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Under Investigation by SIU.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Severe fire damage in the basement of the fire unit causing structural instabilty to the first floor and possibly to the entire east side of the duplex. Heavy smoke damage to all floors of the fire unit and some smoke damage to the neighboring unit.
DOLLAR LOSS: 50,000.00
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 23
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

Great Union Meeting Last Night!

For those of you who weren't able to make it, the newsletter next month will have the minutes.

This month's newsletter is on the local's website, under the member's only tab.

UNION MEETING TONIGHT!

7 PM

Check your email to see who the special guest is!

Reminder - Borg Bash Today

When: February 6th - 4 pm until ?
Where: O'Doherty's - Spokane Fall Blvd and just east of Howard.

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Craig Cornelius / Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 2/4/2010
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 5933 N. Atlantic
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99205

NARRATIVE: This evening, February 4th, at 2109 hours, the Spokane Fire Department dispatched a total of 6 fire apparatus and 2 chief officers to a reported structure fire located at 5933 N. Atlantic.

Engine 18 from Fire Station 18, arrived on the scene a little over 4 minutes after being dispatched. Lt. Pat Sanders reported that he had a single story tri-plex with smoke showing from the center unit. He and his crew advanced a pre-connected hose line into the fire unit and extinguished a fire in the kitchen. Other fire crews verified that occupants in the adjoining apartment units were safely outside and assisted in ventilating the fire unit.

Engine 18 had the fire under control within 5 minutes of their arrival. The fire was confined to the apartment of origin and the cause was cooking related. 22 Firefighters responded to this incident. There were no reported injuries.


PROBABLE CAUSE: Cooking Related
DAMAGE EXTENT: Apartment kitchen area. Smoke damage throughout the entire unit.
DOLLAR LOSS: 15000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 22
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

A very nice note.

Engine 3 stopped, blocked rush hour traffic and then pushed this lady's Suburban off of Maple St, back in November. In December, she sent us this really nice note. It is a slow news day, so I thought I would share this. Most of the time, you never find out how things turn out after we help somebody on a regular call, let alone just helping someone you come upon while returning to the station. So it was really neat to hear from her and find out what caused her vehicle and her family to be stranded in the middle of a busy arterial. If you ever get any notes like this, send them my way and we'll post them.

On 11 -- 23 -- 09, my truck broke down just north of the Maple Street Bridge. Fire Truck #3 stopped and assisted me. I am so thankful for your help that day... It was cold, I had all three of my kids in the truck, on my way to drop two off at school. Our family just wanted to again tell you all thank you for your help!

You don't know how much I appreciated your assistance... By the way, it was our fuel pump. It went out. Bummer... But we are so thankful we were all safe.

Merry Christmas from our family to all of yours! The Spokane community is very fortunate to have you!

From: the McCandless/Merritt Family.

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Dave Haworth/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 2/2/2010
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2518 E 5th
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: On Feb 2, at 1406 hours, the Spokane Fire Department responded 4 engines, 1 ladder, 1 pumper-ladder, 1 rescue, and 2 battalion chiefs to a reported structure fire at 2518 E 5th Ave. The first arriving company, SE7, reported smoke issuing from basement vents and from the front door. After confirming that all occupants were out, companies began a coordinated attack on the basement fire and quickly extinguished it. There were no injuries to civilians or firefighters.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause is under investigation by the Special Investigative Unit and no cause has been determined at the time of the media release.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Heat damage was confined to bedroom contents with moderate smoke damage throughout the rest of the structure.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 21
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

Borg Bash!

No, not the usual Borg Bashing that many have enjoyed over the years, but an actual gathering and celebration of Greg's many years of service to Local 29.

When: February 6th - 4 pm until ?
Where: O'Doherty's - Downtown Spokane. Here.

Every union gathering we have had at O'Doherty's has been a very good time. So come on down and raise a pint, eat some good food and share some stories.

Fire press release

ISSUING OFFICER: Craig Cornelius / Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/26/2010
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 5112 W. Rosewood
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99204

NARRATIVE: Late this evening, January 26, at 2146 hours, the Spokane Fire Department dispatched a total of 7 fire apparatus and 2 chief officers to a reported structure fire located at 5112 W Rosewood Ave.

Engine 16 from Fire Station 16, arrived on the scene 4 minutes after being dispatched. Captain Jim McNamee reported that he had a single story home with heavy fire involvement across the front porch and living room area of the home. He and his crew made an immediate attack on the fire located on the front entry portion of the home. Simultaneously, Engine 16s crew worked in an effort to determine if the home was occupied.

Captain McNamee made contact with a woman who was living in the home. She informed him that she was alright, but that she was unsure if her son had arrived home from work. She stated that her son might be in home's basement.

Incoming fire companies extended additional hose lines into the home to extinguish the fire while other firefighters searched the home in an effort to locate the son. The fire was knocked down within 5 minutes and it was determined that the son was not home.

The aggressive actions of the first arriving crews confined the fire damage to the front porch and living room. Most of the first floor sustained smoke damage. There were no injuries reported relating to this fire. The fire cause is still being investigated at the time of this media release.




PROBABLE CAUSE: Under investigation
DAMAGE EXTENT: See narrative
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 24
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

Vandals take out Vancouver ladder truck.

Newsletter Deadline

If you have anything for the newsletter, email it to me by February 4th. Thanks, John

Facebook Access

Hi everybody,

During the first e-board meeting I was given the task of aligning all of our media stuff. Next week I will have all the website info to work on. This week I linked this blog to facebook, so when there's an update here it should automatically go to facebook.

Currently there are two facebook pages with Local 29 on them. This is the current one. I am going to ask Don Waller to erase the other one. Many of you probably know more about facebook than I do. I still am not sure whether we should have a group or a fansite or what. I will leave it alone for a while.

I also flipped a switch so you can see all the updates on the Local 29 facebook page. After I get done with this posting it should automatically go there. So yes, this is an experiment too. Thanks for bearing with me on this.

John

Fire Press Relief

ISSUING OFFICER: Joel Fielder/ Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/14/2010
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 4110 North Cedar
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: Yesterday, January 13, 2010 the Spokane Fire Department responded at approximately 7:15 PM to 4110 North Cedar. The first crew on-scene reported light smoke showing from the front of the 1-1/2-story, wood framed house and they could hear the home's smoke detectors sounding. The fire crews forced the front door and aggressively attacked the fire from the front of the structure while additional fire crews completed search and rescue, ventilation and salvage and overhaul. The fire was brought under control within 15 minutes and there were no reported injuries to the occupants. One firefighter received a laceration to his hand and was sent to the hospital for treatment. Six fire companies with 22 firefighters responded to this fire and were on scene for approximately 2.5 hours.

The Spokane Fire Department would like to take this opportunity to state the importance of having properly working smoke detectors through out your home. This fire was detected in its early stage by the next door neighbors who heard the smokes detectors activating within the house and they called 911 to report the fire.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire is under investigation by SFD Special Investigation Unit
DAMAGE EXTENT: Fire damage was confined to the main floor living area with smoke damage through out the rest of the structure
DOLLAR LOSS: 20,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 23
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Bruce Moline/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/11/2010
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 3004 N. Crestline
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99207

NARRATIVE: Early Monday morning at 12:42 A.M., the Spokane Fire Department responded to a report of a fire in an apartment complex located at 3004 N. Crestline. Engine 15 from the neighborhood fire station at Wellesley and Crestline was the first to arrive within minutes and found heavy smoke and fire enveloping the second floor of a two story apartment building. An early call for additional fire companies was made given the large volume of fire and smoke coming from the structure. Within minutes these resources arrived and assisted in the extinguishment of the fire. A rapid thorough search was coordinated on the second level of the building and at the same time, a ventilation crew was vertically venting the flat roof overhead for the fire crews inside involved in the extinguishment and search efforts. Two adult occupants were found to be safe outside of the structure and all the other neighboring occupants were able to safely evacuate. A rapid knockdown of the flames was achieved after 20 minutes. Fire crews were then busy with overhaul work which consists of searching out all areas within the building for hot spots. A top to bottom secondary search of the entire complex was also begun to confirm reports that all occupants were out of the building.
The Red Cross arrived to assist the occupants with shelter and belongings. The Spokane Fire Department assisted in making transportation arrangements for the occupants to stay in a nearby hotel. There were 3 engine companies, 2 ladder companies, a rescue unit and 2 battalion chiefs on the first alarm. The fire was then upgraded which brought another engine company to the scene. Shortly after this, a second alarm was struck sending an additional engine, pumper ladder and ladder company to the fire. Two apartment units suffered damage in the blaze with most of the damage confined to the apartment where the fire originated. The cause is undetermined at this time; however the Special Investigative Unit of the Spokane Fire Department has been searching for a cause since the early morning hours and will be at the incident site throughout much of the day. One firefighter sustained a shoulder injury while on the roof top engaged in ventilation. He was treated and released from Deaconess Hospital.


PROBABLE CAUSE: Undetermined at this time. Currently under investigation by the Special Investigation Unit of the Spokane Fire Department.
DAMAGE EXTENT: One apartment unit received heavy fire, smoke and structural damage including damage to contents. An adjacent apartment unit sustained minor fire damage and moderate smoke damage.
DOLLAR LOSS: 100,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 34
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

Fire Press Two fer

ISSUING OFFICER: Dave Haworth/ Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/9/2010
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1712 W Nora Ave
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: On 01/09/2010 at 1409 hours, the Spokane Fire Department responded 3 engines, 3 ladders, 1 pumper-ladder, and 2 battalion chiefs to a reported structure fire at 1712 W Nora Ave. First arriving company, SE3, reported heavy smoke coming from a 2 story residential structure. The first arriving ladder company was assigned to search the structure for occupants while other companies began a coordinated attack on the fire, which was located on the first floor and the basement. The basement location presented a challenge due to the fact there was no access for fire attack companies or windows to remove smoke. Companies had to manually create openings to expose and extinguish the fire. There were no injuries to civilians and one firefighter received a minor laceration to his hand.

PROBABLE CAUSE: This fire is under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department Special Investigative Unit.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Heat damage was confined to the basement and the first floor with smoke damage throughout the rest of the structure.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 28
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE




ISSUING OFFICER: Dave Haworth/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/9/2010
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2311 N Stevens St
CITY: Spokane
STATE:
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: On 01/09/2010 at 1110 hours, the Spokane Fire Department responded 3 engines, 2 ladders, 1 pumper-ladder, and 2 battalion chiefs to a reported structure fire at 2311 N Stevens. First arriving SE3 reported smoke coming from the structure. After ensuring all occupants were out, companies began a coordinated attack on the fire which was located in the basement. Basement fires present a unique challenge to firefighters due to the fact they can be very hard to access, difficult to ventilate, and have the potential to extend vertically throughout the structure. Companies had to remove a large portion of the first floor to finally expose and extinguish the fire.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The Spokane Fire Department Special Investigative Unit determined that the fire was caused by a space heater which was placed in a crawl space under the first floor to keep water pipes from freezing. The heater ignited wood framing under the floor.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Heat damage was confined to the basement and first floor with smoke damage throughout the rest of the structure.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 24
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

Fire Press Release Redux

ISSUING OFFICER: Craig Cornelius / Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 12/27/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 4111 E. 8th Ave
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: Early this morning, December 27, 2009, at 0351 hours, the Spokane Fire Department dispatched a total of 8 fire apparatus and 2 chief officers to a reported structure fire located at 4111 E. 8th Ave.

Engine 14 responding from Fire Station 14, located at 17th and Ray, was the first apparatus to arrive. Lieutenant Jeff Martin reported that he had a large home with heavy fire involvement across the front porch and the west side of the home. After confirming that all occupants were out of the burning home, he quickly made assignments for the other responding fire companies while he and his crew made an immediate attack on the upper floor fire.

Incoming fire companies established a water supply and extended additional hose lines into the home to extinguish the fire. Roof ventilation was performed to assist firefighters working inside the burning structure. The main body of fire was knocked down in a short time. Initial crews were on the scene a total of 3 hours making sure the fire was out. Three fresh companies from the oncoming shift worked an additional 3 hours removing debris during overhaul operations.

Cold winter weather combined with difficult access created a challenge for on scene Firefighters. One Firefighter sustained minor injuries after falling on ice.
Approximately a third of the home sustained significant fire and smoke damage. 4 vehicles that were parked in the driveway were also damaged by the intense radiant heat.



PROBABLE CAUSE: Although the cause of the fire has not been determined as this time, wood stove ashes placed to close to combustibles is one potential cause that still is being looked at.

DAMAGE EXTENT: see narrative above
DOLLAR LOSS: 100,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 30
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Mike Inman / Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 12/27/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 4111 E. 8th
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99202

NARRATIVE: At 4:04 am Dec. 27, 2009 the Spokane Fire Department in Spokane, WA responded to a report of a front porch on fire at 4111 E. 8th Ave on the south hill. Prior to the Fire Departments arrival a Spokane Police Officer reported the house fully involved. The first crews on scene found significant fire in the front of the house and in the living room area. Because the front porch had been severely damaged attack lines had to be pulled to the rear of the house to begin an interior fire attack using 1 ¾" hose lines. The first crews reported that everyone was out of the house. The fire was upgraded to a working fire and an additional Engine and Ladder above the working fire response were requested. A total of 7 Engines, 2 Ladders, 1 Pumper Ladder, 1 Rescue Unit, 2 Battalion Chiefs and an investigator responded with total of 38 Firefighters leaving only 6 fire apparatus to cover the City. A knock down of the main fire occurred rather quickly but the fire had gotten into the structure and attic so a total extinguishment will be slow and tedious as hidden fire is searched out and extinguished. There were no injuries reported of civilians or Firefighters. The house has significant damage and is under investigation by a Fire Investigator from the Departments Special Investigation Unit. Red Cross is assisting the residents and Spokanimal was called for to assist their dog living in the backyard. AVISTA responded to cut electrical power to the structure and to lock off the gas meter which had been turned off.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Under investigation
DAMAGE EXTENT: Significant damage to the front of the house and living room area of the main floor. Also fire damage to the attic with heat and smoke damage throughout the main floor.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 38
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

Christmas message from exiting Bill Jackman...

"Being this is my last day on the SFD, I thought I would spread a little Christmas to some of our less fortunate folks. This family stated 'This is the best thing we ever got for Christmas.'"

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Dan Bown
DATE OF INCIDENT: 12/21/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 5919 North Atlantic
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP: 99205

NARRATIVE: On the morning of 12/21/09 the Spokane City Fire Department responded 2 Engine companies 1 Pumper Ladder, 1 Senior Ladder, 1 heavy Rescue truck and 2 Battalion Chiefs to 5919 North Atlantic. PL 13 arrived on scene and reported that smoke was showing from under the eves of a 1 story 1200 square foot house. E3 was assigned to interior fire attack while the crew on Pl 13 was split into two teams. Team A was assigned to search the interior and team B was sent to the roof to provide ventilation to release the hot smoke and gases .Other companies were assigned to the incident as they arrived.
Quick action by arriving companies resulted in a fast extinguishment of the fire. The fire was confined to the kitchen and smoke damage throughout. The fire was declared out in about 20 minutes. There were no reported injuries and no one was found during the search. The house was vacant and the cause if this fire is under investigation.




PROBABLE CAUSE: This is under investigation.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The interior of the house had extensive damage to the kitchen and smoke damage throughout.
DOLLAR LOSS: 50,000,00
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 18
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

LEOFF Trustee election

There is an election for Trustee for the LEOFF Trust Board going on right now. The election is being done by Wintson and Cashett and if you are on the Trust you should have recieved a ballot from them a few weeks ago. Please return your ballot immediately, and if by mistake you threw it away,you can contact Janelle or Cindy at 838-6131 to find out about casting your vote. Thank you
P.S. The Local has endorsed Greg Haff.

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Craig Cornelius
DATE OF INCIDENT: 12/19/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 4th and Myrtle
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: On Friday December 18, 2009 at 2340 hours, Engine 14 was dispatched to the area of 4th Ave. and Myrtle to investigate "smoke in the area". Engine 14 under the direction of Lieutenant Terry Smith located a home that was heavily charged with smoke and flames.

Lieutenant Smith requested a regular fire response from Fire Dispatch while he and his crew went to work. Two additional Engines, a Ladder, Pumper Ladder, Heavy Rescue and 2 Battalion Chiefs were dispatched. Upon their arrival, the additional crews searched, ventilated and manned additional hose lines.

This structure was not occupied and has been vacant for some time. The fire was extinguished in a relatively short period of time. However, fire crews were on the scene performing overhaul for several hours. Final extinguishment was difficult due to several layers of roofing and a remodel that had taken place over the years.

There were no injuries at this fire and the cause is still under investigation


PROBABLE CAUSE: Cause Still Under Investigation
DAMAGE EXTENT: Total Loss
DOLLAR LOSS: 40000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 22
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Mike Inman / Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 12/18/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 4822 N. Nelson
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP: 99207

NARRATIVE: Just before 11:30 am Friday December 18, 2009 the Spokane Fire Department responded to a reported apartment fire at 4822 N. Nelson. Upon arrival of Engine 15 the first apparatus on scene they reported smoke coming from apartment 6 on the second floor. They initiated a fire attack using a 1 ¾" pre connected hose line once a second apparatus was on scene. Additional crews were used for ventilating the smoke out of the apartment, setting a rapid intervention team and checking for extension of the fire beyond the room of origin as well as looking out for the needs of all residents of the apartment building. The additional crews arriving where to include 2 more Engine Companies, a Pumper Ladder, a Rescue crew and 2 Battalion Chiefs. The fast attack on the fire kept the damage confined to the contents in the bedroom where the fire originated and kept the fire out of the structure. The apartments on both sides and the apartment above the fire were checked for extension and none was found. The air quality was checked in all of the apartments for carbon monoxide and hydrogen cyanide. All air samples were found to be within safe limits. Red Cross was contacted to assist 1 adult and 3 children living in apartment 6. There were no injuries to civilians or Firefighters and the cause of the fire is under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department Special Investigation Unit. One concern which is not determined to be the cause of the fire was clothing and combustibles up against a baseboard heater. The Spokane Fire Department would like to remind people during the heating season to be very careful with all heating devices and keep combustibles away from all equipment used for heat.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Under investigation
DAMAGE EXTENT: Fire damage to contents of bedroom and smoke throughout the apartment.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 22
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Joel Fielder/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 12/17/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2404 West Longfellow
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: Today, December 16, 2009 the Spokane Fire Department responded at 9:54 AM to 2404 West Longfellow, Glover Jr. High on a reported fire in the building. Fire crews arriving on scene found light smoke showing in one of the hallways and upon further investigation discovered a small fire at an electrical panel at the buildings west wing. The fire was quickly extinguished and the remaining fire crews isolated the hallway from the rest of the school and began a systematic removal of smoke from the structure. Spokane Public School representatives' were on scene to direct all evacuation and student transfers to another location. One firefighter was injured when he slipped on an unsecured cover over an underground vault. There were no reported injuries to any civilians

PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire is under investigation by the SFD Special Investigation Unit.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The fire damage was confined to an electrical panel and its associated wiring.
DOLLAR LOSS: 5,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 20
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Bruce Moline/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 12/14/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1640 E. Olympic
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99207

NARRATIVE: On Monday December 14th, 2009 at 6:07 A.M. the Spokane Fire Department responded 4 engine companies, 2 ladder companies, a rescue unit and 2 battalion chiefs to a house fire located at 1640 E. Olympic. Engine 15 from their neighborhood fire station located at Wellesley and Crestline was first to arrive and found a house with smoke pouring from the attic and roof areas. A quick stretch of hose lines from the engine companies along with the ladder company quickly accessing the roof and cutting a hole to release the built up heat, resulted in a "knock down" of the fire after approximately 10 minutes. Both adult occupants were able to safely exit their home. At this time, it appears the fire originated near the electrical panel towards the back of the house. The fire spread upwards through the walls and horizontally through the ceiling space eventually consuming a significant portion of the attic. Storage items and personal belongings sustained heat and smoke damage from the blaze. The occupants were assisted by the Red Cross at the home. Fire crews will remain at the incident site throughout most of the morning working on complete extinguishment, overhaul and assisting the Spokane Fire Department Special Investigation Unit. There were no injuries to firefighters or civilians at this incident. The occupants did not have any smoke detectors present within the home and as a result were lucky to have escaped on their own because smoke is a silent killer. Every home should have a working smoke detector for each level of the home. Smoke detectors save lives.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Possibly electrical in origin. Under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department Special Investigation Unit.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Heavy heat and smoke damage to the attic and contents contained within.
DOLLAR LOSS: 20,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 21
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Dave Leavenworth Deputy Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 12/9/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1311 S Walnut St
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99204

NARRATIVE: On December 9, 2009 9 units from the Spokane Fire Department responded to a possible structure fire at 1311 S Walnut St. Arriving crews found a small fire started when an unknown subject utilized impovised incendiary devices thrown at the structure. Witnesses at the scene reported an unidentified person running from the scene with their arm involved in fire.
This incident is being investigated by the SFD Special Investigaion Division in cooperation with the Spokane Police Department. The SFD is asking anyone with information to call the SIU at 344-FIRE (3473) to report any knowledge they may have concerning this incident.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Under Investigation
DAMAGE EXTENT: Minor damage to the interior of the structure.
DOLLAR LOSS: 0.00
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 23
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: BC Dave Haworth
DATE OF INCIDENT: 12/7/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 603 S Ralph St
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP: 99202

NARRATIVE: On December 7, 2009, at 1:09 Pm, 6 companies of the Spokane Fire Dept, 4 engines, 1 heavy rescue, and 1 senior-ladder under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Bruce Moline and Bob Green responded to a reported garage fire in the alley behind 603 S Ralph St.
The first arriving company, SE14, reported smoke coming from a detached 2-car garage behind this address. After ensuring everyone was out of the structure, companies began a coordinated attack and quickly controlled the fire.
There were no injuries to civilians or firefighters.


PROBABLE CAUSE: The Spokane Fire Dept SIU determined the fire was accidentally caused by an improperly installed wood heating device.
The Fire Dept would like to remind citizens to follow all code requirements when installing home heating devices and to always maintain adequate clearance around them. During periods of extreme cold weather heating devices can be called to operate at a much higher capacity and this can exacerbate any existing problems.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Moderate heat damage to the interior of the structure with smoke damage throughout.
DOLLAR LOSS: 1000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 21
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

Vice-President Nominees

The Executive Board of Local 29 will be accepting candidates for appointment, to fill the position of Vice-President. The duration of this term will be for one year and then will be filled by the standard election process. The names must be emailed to Greg Haff at ghaff@spokane fire.org no later than 1700 hours Wednesday December 16th 2009.

Election Results

The election results for Local 29 are as follows;

President:
Mark Vietzke 160
Shane Skipworth 52

Executive Board:
John Goodman 137 Frank Wood 51
John Griffith 111 Brian Chavez 46
Dan Stroebeck 75 Mike Miller 40
Dan Awbery 69 Rick Barron 20
Dean Carr 59 Brad Cassell 13

The Executive Board Positions will be filled by the three candidates with the most votes.
John Goodman
John Griffith
Dan Stroebeck

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: AC Schaeffer
DATE OF INCIDENT: 12/6/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 6002 North Forest Boulevard
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99205

NARRATIVE: On Sunday December 6, 2009 at 4:50 AM, 6 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 4 Engines, 1 Heavy Rescue and 1-Senior Ladder under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Bruce Moline and Dan Brown responded to a reported house on fire at 6002 North Forest Boulevard.

The neighborhood fire company arrived within 4-minutes and reported smoke showing from the eaves of the home and flames from the rear of the house. The incident was upgraded to a working fire and an additional engine added to the alarm. Once confirming the family of four was accounted for, engine companies stretched pre-connected attack lines to the main body of the fire while the ladder company set ladders and opened the roof for ventilation.

It took 22 Firefighters just 20 minutes to locate and knock down the fire and control the incident. Firefighters were able to limit the damage to the home's contents by placing tarps on the majority of the effects and protecting their property while the damaged area was overhauled.

No civilians or firefighters were injured as a result of the incident.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of this incident is under investigation by the SFD's SIU.

DAMAGE EXTENT: Extensive damage to the rear of the home and moderate smoke damage throughout the structure. SFD is cooperating with Avista, Red Cross and the insurance company to assist the residents in securing temporary accommodations and to make certain the structure is secure and safe.
DOLLAR LOSS: 50000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 22
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

fire press release

ISSUING OFFICER: Larry Mummey/Battalion Chief Mentor
DATE OF INCIDENT: 12/4/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2803 N Mayfair
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99207

NARRATIVE: 12 apparatus and 21 Spokane Fire Department firefighters were dispatched to a reported single family residence structure fire in the north central area of the city at 9:41 am today Friday, December 04, 2009. Vigilant neighbors noticed light smoke coming from the house and called 911. The first crew on scene was Spokane Ladder 2 who reported light smoke coming from the rear of the house. No persons were reported in the structure. The fire response level was not upgraded for additional apparatus. Forced entry into the structure was not necessary. Light smoke conditions and little fire were found inside. After advancing a hose line into the house the fire was quickly extinguished as a result of a coordinated attack on the fire. Damage was contained to the upper floor. Four adults and one child were displaced because of damage to the structure. Red Cross will arrange temporary lodging for the residents. Spokane Fire Department Investigators responded to the scene. No injuries reported.
This is the time of the year where an increase in the number of space heaters contributes to increased fire dangers. Portable heaters should be plugged into properly sized wiring that is designed to handle the load of the heater. Overloaded wiring can heat up and cause fires in the walls.


PROBABLE CAUSE: Under investigation
DAMAGE EXTENT: Upper floor smoke damage
Upper floor west end fire and suppression damage
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 21
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: AC Schaeffer
DATE OF INCIDENT: 12/1/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1120 W Sprague Avenue
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: On Tuesday December 1, 2009 at 6:46 AM, Spokane Fire Station 4 was dispatched to 1120 W Sprague Avenue on a reported general fire alarm sounding in the apartment building. While enroute, Fire Dispatch received 911 calls from the building reporting smoke present on multiple floors. After taking the citizen's calls, Fire Dispatch upgraded the alarm to include a total of 4 Engines, 1 Heavy Rescue, 1 Pumper-Ladder and 2-Senior Ladders under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Dan Brown and Bruce Moline.

When Station 4 arrived they found smoke in the lobby of the 15-story building. Upon further investigation, the companies found heavy smoke emanating from a locked apartment in room 106. Ladder 4 and Engine 4 forced entry into the room, searched and successfully rescued the sole occupant. The victim was located within 6-minutes of dispatch and removed to the exterior of the building where SFD Paramedics treated the victim on-scene and transported the patient to Deaconess Hospital.

Additional tasks were ongoing throughout the rescue including companies successfully confining the fire to the unit of origin, pressurizing the atmosphere to make it safe for occupants, evacuating floors 1 and 2 and sheltering all other occupants from Floor 3 to Floor 15.

It took 28 Firefighters 50-minutes to completely ventilate, extinguish and control the incident.

One fatality occurred as a result of the fire (Ethel Maxfield) a 70 year old female. One adult male from Floor 15 was treated by SFD Paramedics and transported to the hospital. This patient's medical emergency was not related to the fire incident. No Firefighters were injured from the incident.


PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of this incident is under investigation by SFD's SIU.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Significant damage to room 106 and minor smoke damage throughout the first floor.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 28
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

fire press release

ISSUING OFFICER: Mike Inman, Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 11/25/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1218 E. Queen
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP: 99207

NARRATIVE: At 7 minutes after midnight on Wednesday November 25, 2009 the Spokane Fire Department responded to a reported kitchen fire at 1218 E. Queen. 4 Engines, 1 Ladder Truck, 1 Rescue Unit and 2 Battalion Chiefs responded with 21 Firefighters. Upon arrival by the first unit, Engine 15, it was reported that light smoke could be seen coming from the structure. The crew prepared to make an interior attack and did so after Ladder 2 arrived on scene. Additional crews took care of securing a water supply, searching the structure for occupants, ventilating smoke and setting up a rapid intervention crew if needed. Crews also overhauled the structure and looked for possible extension of the fire. The Incident Commander talked with the residents and was told that they had been cooking when the pan caught on fire. They tried to extinguish the fire with a blanket but spread the fire instead and they evacuated the duplex. No smoke alarms were heard sounding anywhere within the structure. A fast interior attack using a 1 ¾ inch fire hose confined the fire damage to the kitchen area. There was significant heat and smoke damage in the downstairs unit's kitchen with smoke damage throughout both duplex units. The fire was determined to be accidental and nobody was injured. Red Cross was called as the fire displaced a total of 5 adults, 1 child and 1 cat. The Spokane Fire Department would like to stress the importance of being careful and vigilant when cooking. If a pan does catch on fire, use an oven mitt to put a lid on the pan to try and smother the fire. Evacuate the building and call 911 for assistance to make sure the fire has not spread. Especially with grease fires do not use water or try to smother a fire with anything that will burn. Lastly make sure your smoke detectors are in working order.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Cooking fire.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Heat and smoke damage to the kitchen and smoke damage throughout the building
DOLLAR LOSS: 20,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 21
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

Spokesman-Review Letter to the editor from a couple of days ago.

The burning question

A few days ago I saw a car with two bumper stickers. One said “Why should I pay for your health care?” The other said, “IAFF.” Presumably the driver of that car, or someone close to him, is a fire fighter. As such, who pays for his health care? I do and so do you.
It seems as though that man gets the lion’s share of his health care paid for by the taxpayers but doesn’t want others to recieve the same benefit. How ironic.

Patricia Cain
Spokane