ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Bob Green
DATE OF INCIDENT: 8/21/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 815 W 7th Ave.
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99204
NARRATIVE: The Spokane City Fire Dept. responded fire fighting crews and their apparatus to W. 815 7th Ave. at 6:07 in the evening of August 21st to a reported structure fire at the 100 year old historical landmark known as the Corbin Mansion. First arriving fire crews reported smoke inside on the upper floor of the building and smoke was visible outside as it was issuing from the roof area at the same time. The Corbin Mansion is a very large and stately structure that has, over time, been remodeled many times and has had many various types of occupancies over the years. Currently it is being used as professional office spaces for a number of tenants. The building's stature and historical importance to the community was uppermost in the minds of the firefighters who were arriving on scene as they entered the building and searched for the cause of the growing amount of smoke that was beginning to spread throughout the upper floor. While fire crews searched diligently inside to find the location of the fire other fire crews were sent to the roof to be in a position to open the roof in case that became necessary. The combined efforts of the crews inside and those on the roof working in unison resulted in locating the fire which was burning and starting to spread through the large open attic space. As holes were being pierced through the ceiling from below and the roof was opened from above fire fighters were able to hit the main body of fire with their hose leads and get a fairly quick knockdown of the difficult to locate fire. Fire fighters then had to dig out all the remaining fire and embers from the insulation and the damaged structural members in the attic and then remove that debris from the top floor down to the parking lot 3 floors below. The fire in the attic did substantial damage to the structural members of the roof system in the center of the building; some of those damaged structural members were the sole support of a rather large heating and air-conditioning unit that sat atop those members in the attic space. Due to the damage done by the burning of those members the unit was in a very dangerous position and so it was shored up to prevent it's collapse by equipment from the Fire Dept.'s Urban Search and Rescue Team and left in place in the building until repairs to the roof system can be undertaken. Fire damage to the Corbin Mansion was contained mainly to the top floor and the attic above. A certain amount of collateral damage occurred as the search for the hidden fire progressed and there was some water damage on the lower floors due to the application of water on the top floor and its inevitable tendency to run downhill. Many older buildings such as the Corbin Mansion have been lost to fires in the past; fortunately for our community this building can be repaired. There were no injuries to civilians or fire fighters at this particular incident. Eight pieces of fire apparatus and Two Command vehicles with 28 fire fighters and 2 battalion Chiefs worked to find and extinguish this fire. The cause of the fire appears to be a malfunction in the already mentioned, large heating and air conditioning unit housed in the attic.
PROBABLE CAUSE: A malfunction in the heating, air-conditioning unit housed in the building's attic.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Fire damage was confined to the top floor and the attic space, smoke and water damage were present to some degree on all floors.
DOLLAR LOSS: 30,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 30
MUTUAL AID: None Given
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Fire Press Release
ISSUING OFFICER: Bruce Moline/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 8/14/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 3217 N. Nelson
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99223
NARRATIVE: On 8/14/07 at 10:23 A.M. the Spokane Fire Department responded to a house fire located at 3217 N. Nelson. Upon arrival, fire crews found a wood frame dwelling with fire showing from the eaves and roof area. An aggressive interior attack was made using hose lines and at the same time a search effort was coordinated to locate any victims that remained inside the home. Roof ventilation was also started in order to properly let the hot smoke and gases escape so fire crews could more efficiently locate the fire and extinguish it. This was accomplished by using chainsaws to cut openings in the roof. The fire was reported to be "knocked down" after 15 minutes. A total of 21 firefighters responded on this alarm on 3 engine companies, 2 ladder companies, a pumper ladder company, a rescue unit and 2 battalion chiefs. There were 5 occupants inside the house when the fire began and all made it out to safety. The Red Cross is currently assisting these occupants. There were no injuries to firefighters or civilians. The warm temperatures of the day proved to be challenging to firefighters once again and special consideration was given to rotating crews through the various work assignments. Firefighters remained on the scene throughout a good share of the day conducting overhaul operations. The second floor of this dwelling received extensive damage from the fire and the ground floor level received water and smoke damage. The cause of this fire is currently under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department Investigation Division.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Under investigation by Spokane Fire Department investigators.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The second level received heavy damage from the fire. This consisted of structural damage and damage to contents (clothing, furnishings and belongings.)The main level including the basement, sustained moderate damage from both smoke and water.
DOLLAR LOSS: 40,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 21
MUTUAL AID: None Given
DATE OF INCIDENT: 8/14/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 3217 N. Nelson
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99223
NARRATIVE: On 8/14/07 at 10:23 A.M. the Spokane Fire Department responded to a house fire located at 3217 N. Nelson. Upon arrival, fire crews found a wood frame dwelling with fire showing from the eaves and roof area. An aggressive interior attack was made using hose lines and at the same time a search effort was coordinated to locate any victims that remained inside the home. Roof ventilation was also started in order to properly let the hot smoke and gases escape so fire crews could more efficiently locate the fire and extinguish it. This was accomplished by using chainsaws to cut openings in the roof. The fire was reported to be "knocked down" after 15 minutes. A total of 21 firefighters responded on this alarm on 3 engine companies, 2 ladder companies, a pumper ladder company, a rescue unit and 2 battalion chiefs. There were 5 occupants inside the house when the fire began and all made it out to safety. The Red Cross is currently assisting these occupants. There were no injuries to firefighters or civilians. The warm temperatures of the day proved to be challenging to firefighters once again and special consideration was given to rotating crews through the various work assignments. Firefighters remained on the scene throughout a good share of the day conducting overhaul operations. The second floor of this dwelling received extensive damage from the fire and the ground floor level received water and smoke damage. The cause of this fire is currently under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department Investigation Division.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Under investigation by Spokane Fire Department investigators.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The second level received heavy damage from the fire. This consisted of structural damage and damage to contents (clothing, furnishings and belongings.)The main level including the basement, sustained moderate damage from both smoke and water.
DOLLAR LOSS: 40,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 21
MUTUAL AID: None Given
Saturday, August 11, 2007
Fire Press Release
ISSUING OFFICER: Battaloin Chief Dan Brown
DATE OF INCIDENT: 8/10/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1711 West 10th Ave
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP: 99204
NARRATIVE: On the evening of August the 10th at 6:37pm the City of Spokane Fire department responded to 1711 West 10th Ave to a reported fire in the Parson's Apartments. The first arriving company reported smoke showing from the 2nd floor. Upon investigation a fire was discovered in an apartment at the far end of the hall. Pre-connected hose lines were advanced and a quick knock down of the fire took place. A search of the room and the apartment building was conducted no one was found. The tenant, an 81 year old female suffered minor smoke inhalation and first degree burns on her legs, she was transported to a local Hospital. This was a smoker caused fire which ignited a home oxygen system. The fire did extensive damage to the apartment and smoke damage to other units. One other male was treated for smoke inhalation at the scene. Nineteen firefighters and two command personnel responded to this fire.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Smoker
DAMAGE EXTENT: Extensive damage to the apartment.
DOLLAR LOSS: 45,000.00
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 19
MUTUAL AID: None Given
DATE OF INCIDENT: 8/10/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1711 West 10th Ave
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP: 99204
NARRATIVE: On the evening of August the 10th at 6:37pm the City of Spokane Fire department responded to 1711 West 10th Ave to a reported fire in the Parson's Apartments. The first arriving company reported smoke showing from the 2nd floor. Upon investigation a fire was discovered in an apartment at the far end of the hall. Pre-connected hose lines were advanced and a quick knock down of the fire took place. A search of the room and the apartment building was conducted no one was found. The tenant, an 81 year old female suffered minor smoke inhalation and first degree burns on her legs, she was transported to a local Hospital. This was a smoker caused fire which ignited a home oxygen system. The fire did extensive damage to the apartment and smoke damage to other units. One other male was treated for smoke inhalation at the scene. Nineteen firefighters and two command personnel responded to this fire.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Smoker
DAMAGE EXTENT: Extensive damage to the apartment.
DOLLAR LOSS: 45,000.00
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 19
MUTUAL AID: None Given
Friday, August 10, 2007
Bill Jackman for Employee of the Month
Some of you may have already deleted Marlene Feist's email: "Request for Nominations for September EOM." For those who haven't I am asking you to consider Bill Jackman. Bill has, over the years, been collecting data on the fulfillment of AMR's contract with the city.
He has done this on his own time, and has been a watchdog for the citizens of Spokane.
Not long ago, Bill presented his case to the city council. Thanks to Bill, they pushed hard against many forces, including Assistant Mayor Jack Lynch, to conduct an investigation into the oversight of AMR's contract. When the dust had settled, Bill's work proved to be correct. The city had the ability to levy millions of dollars of fines against AMR. Mayor Hession decided to ask for tens of thousands, instead.
Maybe the mayor was right, maybe he wasn't. What matters is that Bill Jackman did a lot of work in trying to protect our citizens, all on his own time. The city has never mentioned it. They never thanked him for his work. In fact, it seems as if they are/were hostile toward Bill for creating more work for them and a controversy that was not easilly explained. That's not right - at all.
I'm asking you to do this not as a political statement, but as righting a wrong. In fact, if I were Mayor Hession, I would make sure Bill was honored for his work. It would be the right thing to do and would also show that Dennis is a mayor without strings attached.
Anyway, please consider submitting an EOM nomination for Bill. After you download the form from Marlene, you will need to complete it and mail it to Catherine English at cenglish@spokanecity.org. All the information is on the email. If you would like to see my nomination form, or need a new one because you deleted it already, let me know and I will forward one to you.
Thanks for all your work, and taking time out to read this long request.
John
He has done this on his own time, and has been a watchdog for the citizens of Spokane.
Not long ago, Bill presented his case to the city council. Thanks to Bill, they pushed hard against many forces, including Assistant Mayor Jack Lynch, to conduct an investigation into the oversight of AMR's contract. When the dust had settled, Bill's work proved to be correct. The city had the ability to levy millions of dollars of fines against AMR. Mayor Hession decided to ask for tens of thousands, instead.
Maybe the mayor was right, maybe he wasn't. What matters is that Bill Jackman did a lot of work in trying to protect our citizens, all on his own time. The city has never mentioned it. They never thanked him for his work. In fact, it seems as if they are/were hostile toward Bill for creating more work for them and a controversy that was not easilly explained. That's not right - at all.
I'm asking you to do this not as a political statement, but as righting a wrong. In fact, if I were Mayor Hession, I would make sure Bill was honored for his work. It would be the right thing to do and would also show that Dennis is a mayor without strings attached.
Anyway, please consider submitting an EOM nomination for Bill. After you download the form from Marlene, you will need to complete it and mail it to Catherine English at cenglish@spokanecity.org. All the information is on the email. If you would like to see my nomination form, or need a new one because you deleted it already, let me know and I will forward one to you.
Thanks for all your work, and taking time out to read this long request.
John
Monday, August 06, 2007
Letters to the editor - city primary election.
If you would like to send a letter to the editor for the Spokesman-Review, please click the link above. Remember, it just has to be under 200 words and you have to give them your postal address and your phone number (so they can verify where you live). As you probably know, Local 29 is endorsing Al French for mayor. It was a close call between him and Mary Verner. But, as always, please call it like you see it in your letter. If you would like some assistance, or proofreading, I would be more than happy to help.
Sunday, August 05, 2007
Fire Press Release - a twofer...
Structure Fire
8/3/2007
2824 East Everett
Dan Brown, Battalion Chief
Narrative :
On Friday, August 3, 2007 at 12:28 PM, 7 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 3 Engines, 1 Senior Ladder, 1 Pumper-Ladder and 1 Heavy Rescue under the direction of Battalion Chief Brown responded to a reported apartment fire at 2824 East Everett. The first company arrived within four-minutes to discover heavy smoke showing from the third floor of a 3-story, 8-unit wood-frame apartment complex. The first arriving engine (E-15) aggressively attacked the quickly spreading fire while Ladder 2 forcibly entered, ventilated and searched apartments from ground ladders. Additional companies were assigned to attack the fire from multiple sides and floors as it spread quickly through the complex as well as perform other fireground tasks. Due to the number of residents that were evacuating from ladders and stairways and the quickly deteriorating conditions; the Incident Commander ordered an additional engine and Ladder company which supplemented abovementioned resources. Additional staff on the alarm also included Training Staff, Assistant Fire Marshal, Deputy Chief, Training Chief and Assistant Chief. Firefighters were able to confine the blaze to the third floor and roof, with only minor damage to units below on the second and first floors. The fire was under control in approximately 60 minutes. There were no civilians injured in the incident, however one firefighter was transported to Deaconess for heat exhaustion while three others were treated on-scene for injuries received from falling debris during the fire.
Cause :
Initial reports from witnesses had indicated that a suspect fled the scene with an accelerant and lighter. The subject mentioned remains a person of interest, however the physical investigation was just beginning at the time of this release and no official cause has been determined yet. Investigators will be working on this incident for most likely the remainder of the afternoon.
Damage :
A majority of the roof, attic and third floor has been destroyed. Multiple vehicles that were parked also received varying levels of damage. The structural integrity of the building is compromised and is not able to be re-occupied. The SFD and Red Cross are helping temporarily relocate the residents and account for their personal belongings.
Structure Fire
8/3/2007
106 South Cedar
Brian Schaeffer, Assistant Chief
Narrative :
On Friday, August 3, 2007 at 13:48 PM, 8 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 4 Engines, 1 Senior Ladder, 1 Pumper-Ladder under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Inman and Hanna responded to a reported apartment fire at 106 South Cedar. The first company arrived within four-minutes to discover smoke showing from a third floor unit a 4-story, ordinary constructed apartment building. The first arriving station (Engine 4 and Ladder 4) also reported that the alarm was sounding in the building and occupants were evacuating. First arriving companies were utilized to ventilate and extinguish the fire on the third floor quickly, however anytime fires occur above the main floor they require more resources due to the additional personnel needed to move equipment and hose lines up flights of stairs. Companies were able to ventilate the building and assist residents to the exterior without incident. The fire was contained to the room of origin and there were no injuries to civilians or firefighters.
Cause :
The cause was an electrical malfunction of a window air conditioner.
Damage :
Damage is limited to one unit and is moderate
8/3/2007
2824 East Everett
Dan Brown, Battalion Chief
Narrative :
On Friday, August 3, 2007 at 12:28 PM, 7 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 3 Engines, 1 Senior Ladder, 1 Pumper-Ladder and 1 Heavy Rescue under the direction of Battalion Chief Brown responded to a reported apartment fire at 2824 East Everett. The first company arrived within four-minutes to discover heavy smoke showing from the third floor of a 3-story, 8-unit wood-frame apartment complex. The first arriving engine (E-15) aggressively attacked the quickly spreading fire while Ladder 2 forcibly entered, ventilated and searched apartments from ground ladders. Additional companies were assigned to attack the fire from multiple sides and floors as it spread quickly through the complex as well as perform other fireground tasks. Due to the number of residents that were evacuating from ladders and stairways and the quickly deteriorating conditions; the Incident Commander ordered an additional engine and Ladder company which supplemented abovementioned resources. Additional staff on the alarm also included Training Staff, Assistant Fire Marshal, Deputy Chief, Training Chief and Assistant Chief. Firefighters were able to confine the blaze to the third floor and roof, with only minor damage to units below on the second and first floors. The fire was under control in approximately 60 minutes. There were no civilians injured in the incident, however one firefighter was transported to Deaconess for heat exhaustion while three others were treated on-scene for injuries received from falling debris during the fire.
Cause :
Initial reports from witnesses had indicated that a suspect fled the scene with an accelerant and lighter. The subject mentioned remains a person of interest, however the physical investigation was just beginning at the time of this release and no official cause has been determined yet. Investigators will be working on this incident for most likely the remainder of the afternoon.
Damage :
A majority of the roof, attic and third floor has been destroyed. Multiple vehicles that were parked also received varying levels of damage. The structural integrity of the building is compromised and is not able to be re-occupied. The SFD and Red Cross are helping temporarily relocate the residents and account for their personal belongings.
Structure Fire
8/3/2007
106 South Cedar
Brian Schaeffer, Assistant Chief
Narrative :
On Friday, August 3, 2007 at 13:48 PM, 8 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 4 Engines, 1 Senior Ladder, 1 Pumper-Ladder under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Inman and Hanna responded to a reported apartment fire at 106 South Cedar. The first company arrived within four-minutes to discover smoke showing from a third floor unit a 4-story, ordinary constructed apartment building. The first arriving station (Engine 4 and Ladder 4) also reported that the alarm was sounding in the building and occupants were evacuating. First arriving companies were utilized to ventilate and extinguish the fire on the third floor quickly, however anytime fires occur above the main floor they require more resources due to the additional personnel needed to move equipment and hose lines up flights of stairs. Companies were able to ventilate the building and assist residents to the exterior without incident. The fire was contained to the room of origin and there were no injuries to civilians or firefighters.
Cause :
The cause was an electrical malfunction of a window air conditioner.
Damage :
Damage is limited to one unit and is moderate
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Fire Press Release
ISSUING OFFICER: Brian Schaeffer, Assistant Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 7/30/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: Liberty/N. Freya
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99208
NARRATIVE: On Monday, July 30, 2007 at 2:35pm, 7 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 3 Engines, 2 Senior Ladders, 1 Pumper-Ladder and 1 Heavy Rescue under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Kirsch and Fielder responded to a reported residential fire located near the intersection of Liberty/Freya.
Chiefs Leavenworth and Schaeffer were enroute to a meeting at the SFD Training Center and responded to the nearby alarm. They arrived within two minutes and reported a quickly spreading fire which involved a shed, garage and a row of tall coniferous trees. The fire was endangering two homes, two garages and overhead utility lines.
Initial arriving companies quickly secured water supply and advanced attack lines to extinguish the fire and protect the nearby homes and property. The fire was placed under control within 25 minutes without injury to either civilians or firefighters.
PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause is still under investigation. Investigators were still on-scene at the time of this release.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The resident's pump house/shed is completely destroyed as well as a privacy fence and row of shrubs. The fire damaged the exterior of the west multiple car garage as well as the south garage. Minor truss damage on the garage to the west was evident, however the complete extent was not known at the time of the release. The nearby home was the firefighter's primary tactical concern and thankfully it did not suffer damage.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 26
MUTUAL AID: None Given
DATE OF INCIDENT: 7/30/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: Liberty/N. Freya
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99208
NARRATIVE: On Monday, July 30, 2007 at 2:35pm, 7 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 3 Engines, 2 Senior Ladders, 1 Pumper-Ladder and 1 Heavy Rescue under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Kirsch and Fielder responded to a reported residential fire located near the intersection of Liberty/Freya.
Chiefs Leavenworth and Schaeffer were enroute to a meeting at the SFD Training Center and responded to the nearby alarm. They arrived within two minutes and reported a quickly spreading fire which involved a shed, garage and a row of tall coniferous trees. The fire was endangering two homes, two garages and overhead utility lines.
Initial arriving companies quickly secured water supply and advanced attack lines to extinguish the fire and protect the nearby homes and property. The fire was placed under control within 25 minutes without injury to either civilians or firefighters.
PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause is still under investigation. Investigators were still on-scene at the time of this release.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The resident's pump house/shed is completely destroyed as well as a privacy fence and row of shrubs. The fire damaged the exterior of the west multiple car garage as well as the south garage. Minor truss damage on the garage to the west was evident, however the complete extent was not known at the time of the release. The nearby home was the firefighter's primary tactical concern and thankfully it did not suffer damage.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 26
MUTUAL AID: None Given
Monday, July 30, 2007
Fire Press Release
ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Dan Brown
DATE OF INCIDENT: 7/29/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2220 WEST Gardner
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99205
NARRATIVE: On July the 29th at 6:16 pm the City of Spokane Fire Department responded to 2220 West Gardner in the West Central neighborhood to a reported detached garage fire. The first arriving Engine Company reported a single car garage with smoke and flames showing from the front door. A quick fire attack knocked down the main body of fire in about 3 minutes. Complete extinguishment and overhaul took about 1 hour. Home owners were not at home only to arrive to find the garage on fire. The fire cause has not been determined and is being investigated. Nineteen Firefighters and 2 command personnel responded to this alarm. No injuries were reported.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Under investigation
DAMAGE EXTENT: Total loss
DOLLAR LOSS: 15,000.00
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 19
MUTUAL AID: None Given
DATE OF INCIDENT: 7/29/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2220 WEST Gardner
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99205
NARRATIVE: On July the 29th at 6:16 pm the City of Spokane Fire Department responded to 2220 West Gardner in the West Central neighborhood to a reported detached garage fire. The first arriving Engine Company reported a single car garage with smoke and flames showing from the front door. A quick fire attack knocked down the main body of fire in about 3 minutes. Complete extinguishment and overhaul took about 1 hour. Home owners were not at home only to arrive to find the garage on fire. The fire cause has not been determined and is being investigated. Nineteen Firefighters and 2 command personnel responded to this alarm. No injuries were reported.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Under investigation
DAMAGE EXTENT: Total loss
DOLLAR LOSS: 15,000.00
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 19
MUTUAL AID: None Given
Thursday, July 26, 2007
Mayor wants 12 hours a day devoted to protecting Spokane by replacing 6 of the 50 positions that were cut...
Click the title above to take the KXLY survey and leave comments regarding Mayor Hession's political move. You can remain anonymous or not leave comments.
Fire Press Release (apologies - just got back from the broadbandless wilderness)
ISSUING OFFICER: Brian Schaeffer, Assistant Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 7/24/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Multiple Alarms
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2733 North Pittsburg Street
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99208
NARRATIVE: On Monday, July 23, 2007 at 5:30 PM, 6 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 3 Engines, 2 Senior Ladders and 1 Heavy Rescue under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Cornelius and Inman responded to a reported commercial structure fire at Whitley Fuel site located at 2733 North Pittsburg Street.
The first company arrived within minutes to discover heavy smoke and fire showing from a two-story warehouse with multiple vehicles involved-one primarily being a fuel tanker containing several thousand gallons of fuel. Initial companies immediately requested a second alarm which was followed in quick succession by a third alarm request. All three alarms included all of the City of Spokane's 17 fire companies and available Chief Officers.
The building's contents included gasoline, diesel fuel, racing fuel, motor oil, hydraulic transmission, heavy lubricant oil and hundreds of other unknown substances packed into multiple stories of storage. Despite the extreme amount of heat and multiple explosions from massive amounts of stored hydrocarbon chemicals, Firefighters were able to confine the blaze within the area surrounding three main buildings.
The heroics and aggressiveness by the Spokane Firefighters cannot be overstated. Without their cooperation and professionalism this incident would likely have turned into a catastrophic event with enormous loss. Athough the fire continues to burn at the time of this release, the main threat from potential fire spread or explosions has been completely mitigated. Multiple companies of recalled , off-duty firefighters were utilized last night to remain on scene and continue to extinguish "hot spots" and provide site safety for the scene.
Mutual Aid:
Five mutual aid companies were quickly moved into many of the City's fire stations. The mutual aid companies responded to nearly 20 calls for service which were unrelated to the incident during the initial period of the fire. Specialized crash rescue trucks from Spokane International Airport and Fairchild AFB were also utilized through the mutual aid agreement. Both apparatus were brought directly to the scene for their AFFF (Class B Foam) capability. A Type III Incident Management Team made up of Chiefs and specially trained officers from a diverse cross-section of Spokane's Fire and Law Agencies was also dispatched. The Type III Team (called MIST) was utilized to build a plan for the next two operational periods to include objectives such as mitigating the ecological impacts as well as the complete extinguishment of the fire. The team worked closely with SFD Chief Staff through a liaison to establish priorities and bring multiple agencies (SPD, SFD, DOE, Water/Sewer Department, Mutual Aid, Demolition, Business Owners, Department of Health.etc) all together in collaboration.
Contributing Factors for Firefighters:
The atmospheric conditions remained a challenge throughout the incident. While in their personal protective clothing and mandatory use of SCBA (Self-Contained-Breathing Apparatus) the firefighters had to endure triple digit temperatures, a threatening lightening storm and several periods of wind gusts which made firefighting extremely difficult and challenging.
Rehydration and constant rotation of companies were necessary to prevent illness and injury of the firefighters from the extreme heat and conditions. Staff personnel, including Dr. Edminster (FD Physician Director), monitored firefighter's vital signs closely and also treated three minor injuries during the incident.
Despite the safeguards, three firefighters received treatment for minor injuries. There were also civilians that were treated for smoke inhalation, however denied transportation to the emergency department.
PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause is still under investigation. I am expecting to facilitate a press conference later this afternoon regarding the event and consequences expected thus far. If you have any additional questions, please call me.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The Whitley Warehouse (75' x100', 2 story un-reinforced masonry building) is completely destroyed. A nearby 20'x120' wood frame and concrete block building is also significantly damaged, albeit repairable. The nearby office buildings received moderate damage as well, but specific information regarding the estimate was not available. Fifteen (15) passenger style vehicles and vans located in parking areas are completely destroyed. A semi pulling a tandem double fuel trailer as well as a fuel tank are also destroyed. The on-site, fixed flammable liquid storage containers all received varying levels of damage.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE:
MUTUAL AID: Fire District 1, Fire District 10, Fire District 3, Fire District 4, Fire District 9
DATE OF INCIDENT: 7/24/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Multiple Alarms
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2733 North Pittsburg Street
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99208
NARRATIVE: On Monday, July 23, 2007 at 5:30 PM, 6 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 3 Engines, 2 Senior Ladders and 1 Heavy Rescue under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Cornelius and Inman responded to a reported commercial structure fire at Whitley Fuel site located at 2733 North Pittsburg Street.
The first company arrived within minutes to discover heavy smoke and fire showing from a two-story warehouse with multiple vehicles involved-one primarily being a fuel tanker containing several thousand gallons of fuel. Initial companies immediately requested a second alarm which was followed in quick succession by a third alarm request. All three alarms included all of the City of Spokane's 17 fire companies and available Chief Officers.
The building's contents included gasoline, diesel fuel, racing fuel, motor oil, hydraulic transmission, heavy lubricant oil and hundreds of other unknown substances packed into multiple stories of storage. Despite the extreme amount of heat and multiple explosions from massive amounts of stored hydrocarbon chemicals, Firefighters were able to confine the blaze within the area surrounding three main buildings.
The heroics and aggressiveness by the Spokane Firefighters cannot be overstated. Without their cooperation and professionalism this incident would likely have turned into a catastrophic event with enormous loss. Athough the fire continues to burn at the time of this release, the main threat from potential fire spread or explosions has been completely mitigated. Multiple companies of recalled , off-duty firefighters were utilized last night to remain on scene and continue to extinguish "hot spots" and provide site safety for the scene.
Mutual Aid:
Five mutual aid companies were quickly moved into many of the City's fire stations. The mutual aid companies responded to nearly 20 calls for service which were unrelated to the incident during the initial period of the fire. Specialized crash rescue trucks from Spokane International Airport and Fairchild AFB were also utilized through the mutual aid agreement. Both apparatus were brought directly to the scene for their AFFF (Class B Foam) capability. A Type III Incident Management Team made up of Chiefs and specially trained officers from a diverse cross-section of Spokane's Fire and Law Agencies was also dispatched. The Type III Team (called MIST) was utilized to build a plan for the next two operational periods to include objectives such as mitigating the ecological impacts as well as the complete extinguishment of the fire. The team worked closely with SFD Chief Staff through a liaison to establish priorities and bring multiple agencies (SPD, SFD, DOE, Water/Sewer Department, Mutual Aid, Demolition, Business Owners, Department of Health.etc) all together in collaboration.
Contributing Factors for Firefighters:
The atmospheric conditions remained a challenge throughout the incident. While in their personal protective clothing and mandatory use of SCBA (Self-Contained-Breathing Apparatus) the firefighters had to endure triple digit temperatures, a threatening lightening storm and several periods of wind gusts which made firefighting extremely difficult and challenging.
Rehydration and constant rotation of companies were necessary to prevent illness and injury of the firefighters from the extreme heat and conditions. Staff personnel, including Dr. Edminster (FD Physician Director), monitored firefighter's vital signs closely and also treated three minor injuries during the incident.
Despite the safeguards, three firefighters received treatment for minor injuries. There were also civilians that were treated for smoke inhalation, however denied transportation to the emergency department.
PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause is still under investigation. I am expecting to facilitate a press conference later this afternoon regarding the event and consequences expected thus far. If you have any additional questions, please call me.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The Whitley Warehouse (75' x100', 2 story un-reinforced masonry building) is completely destroyed. A nearby 20'x120' wood frame and concrete block building is also significantly damaged, albeit repairable. The nearby office buildings received moderate damage as well, but specific information regarding the estimate was not available. Fifteen (15) passenger style vehicles and vans located in parking areas are completely destroyed. A semi pulling a tandem double fuel trailer as well as a fuel tank are also destroyed. The on-site, fixed flammable liquid storage containers all received varying levels of damage.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE:
MUTUAL AID: Fire District 1, Fire District 10, Fire District 3, Fire District 4, Fire District 9
Monday, July 16, 2007
Fire Press Release
ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Bob Green
DATE OF INCIDENT: 7/16/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2329 E 7th Avenue
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99202
NARRATIVE: The Spokane City Fire Department dispatched fire fighting crews and fire apparatus to 2329 E 7th Avenue on a reported structure fire at 0838 hrs. on Monday morning, July 16th. The first arriving fire company on scene reported heavy smoke coming from the rear of a single story wood/frame residence. That initial company pulled pre-connected hose leads from their fire apparatus and made immediate entry into the front door of the residence in an effort to quickly locate the seat of the fire and attempt to get it knocked down. Neighbors told subsequently arriving fire crews that they believed the tenant was still inside the structure so a primary and a secondary search of the structure were undertaken while the fire was being attacked from the inside and ventilation efforts were started both on the interior and on the roof. The two searches inside the structure found that no one was in the home at the time of the fire. The whereabouts of the lone tenant who resides at this address was unknown. Aggressive interior fire fighting by the members of the first arriving fire crews resulted in a quick knock down of the fire that was located in a bedroom and helped limit the further spread of the fire into other areas of the structure. There were no reported injuries to any of the responding City firefighters or to any civilians. A total of 25 fire fighters on 7 pieces of fire apparatus and 1 Command vehicle responded to this fire. The fire damage inside the structure was limited to a bedroom, bathroom, part of the living room, and some of the roof structural members in those damaged areas. Smoke damage was throughout the building and there was some amount of water damage from the water that was used to extinguish the morning fire. The cause of this fire is currently under investigation by officials of the Spokane City Fire Department. Fire fighters at this fire scene noted that there was a non-working smoke detector present in the residence and, as always, that information causes fire fighters to become concerned for their fellow citizens' safety. These fire fighters want to remind everyone in the greater Spokane area to check the smoke detector batteries in your own home twice yearly (at least) to insure that you and your family members will get that early warning of a fire that may possibly be the difference between a safe exit from the building or incurring serious or even deadly injuries.
PROBABLE CAUSE: The fire is currently under investigation by officials of the Spokane City Fire Department.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The fire gutted 1 bedroom, damaged an adjacent bathroom, part of the living room, and some structural members of the roof system.
DOLLAR LOSS: 20,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 25
MUTUAL AID: None Given
DATE OF INCIDENT: 7/16/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2329 E 7th Avenue
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99202
NARRATIVE: The Spokane City Fire Department dispatched fire fighting crews and fire apparatus to 2329 E 7th Avenue on a reported structure fire at 0838 hrs. on Monday morning, July 16th. The first arriving fire company on scene reported heavy smoke coming from the rear of a single story wood/frame residence. That initial company pulled pre-connected hose leads from their fire apparatus and made immediate entry into the front door of the residence in an effort to quickly locate the seat of the fire and attempt to get it knocked down. Neighbors told subsequently arriving fire crews that they believed the tenant was still inside the structure so a primary and a secondary search of the structure were undertaken while the fire was being attacked from the inside and ventilation efforts were started both on the interior and on the roof. The two searches inside the structure found that no one was in the home at the time of the fire. The whereabouts of the lone tenant who resides at this address was unknown. Aggressive interior fire fighting by the members of the first arriving fire crews resulted in a quick knock down of the fire that was located in a bedroom and helped limit the further spread of the fire into other areas of the structure. There were no reported injuries to any of the responding City firefighters or to any civilians. A total of 25 fire fighters on 7 pieces of fire apparatus and 1 Command vehicle responded to this fire. The fire damage inside the structure was limited to a bedroom, bathroom, part of the living room, and some of the roof structural members in those damaged areas. Smoke damage was throughout the building and there was some amount of water damage from the water that was used to extinguish the morning fire. The cause of this fire is currently under investigation by officials of the Spokane City Fire Department. Fire fighters at this fire scene noted that there was a non-working smoke detector present in the residence and, as always, that information causes fire fighters to become concerned for their fellow citizens' safety. These fire fighters want to remind everyone in the greater Spokane area to check the smoke detector batteries in your own home twice yearly (at least) to insure that you and your family members will get that early warning of a fire that may possibly be the difference between a safe exit from the building or incurring serious or even deadly injuries.
PROBABLE CAUSE: The fire is currently under investigation by officials of the Spokane City Fire Department.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The fire gutted 1 bedroom, damaged an adjacent bathroom, part of the living room, and some structural members of the roof system.
DOLLAR LOSS: 20,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 25
MUTUAL AID: None Given
Sunday, July 15, 2007
Rudy Giuliani, The WTC Recovery Effort and IAFF President Schaitberger...
An eight minute segment from the Randi Rhodes Show. She plays a clip from a Chris Mathews interview of Schaitberger.
Saturday, July 14, 2007
fire Press Release
ISSUING OFFICER: Dave Leavenworth
DATE OF INCIDENT: 7/13/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 501 W Auburn Crest Ct
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99224
NARRATIVE: At 1735 hours on July 13, 2007 the Spokane Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire with seven fire apparatus, three command vehicles, and 24 personnel. First arriving units found a two story structure with fire showing at the peak of the roof and rapidly moving through the attic. No ooccupants were home at the time of the fire and witnesses reported a lightning strike to the structure. Fire units advanced a hose line to the second floor of the home as ladder personnel opened the roof to ventilate the attic. Remaining crews conducted a search of the structure for reported three family pets in the home and pulled ceilings to open the attic space for extinguishment. Crew brought the fire under control in approximately 20 minutes and began salvage operations to protect the homeowners property from further damage from water. Fire crews simultaneously performed overhaul operations to assure complete extinguishment of the fire.
One firefighter was transported by fire department vehicle to Deaconess Medical Center for evaluation after debris fell on him during firefighting operations. He was returned to duty with no injury. No civilian injuries occured at this incident. Two of the family cats were removed from the structure by firefighters, while a third cat was not found inside the home.
PROBABLE CAUSE: The probable cause of the fire was determined by witness statements to be a lightning strike to the roof of the structure.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Unknown at this time
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 24
MUTUAL AID: None Given
DATE OF INCIDENT: 7/13/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 501 W Auburn Crest Ct
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99224
NARRATIVE: At 1735 hours on July 13, 2007 the Spokane Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire with seven fire apparatus, three command vehicles, and 24 personnel. First arriving units found a two story structure with fire showing at the peak of the roof and rapidly moving through the attic. No ooccupants were home at the time of the fire and witnesses reported a lightning strike to the structure. Fire units advanced a hose line to the second floor of the home as ladder personnel opened the roof to ventilate the attic. Remaining crews conducted a search of the structure for reported three family pets in the home and pulled ceilings to open the attic space for extinguishment. Crew brought the fire under control in approximately 20 minutes and began salvage operations to protect the homeowners property from further damage from water. Fire crews simultaneously performed overhaul operations to assure complete extinguishment of the fire.
One firefighter was transported by fire department vehicle to Deaconess Medical Center for evaluation after debris fell on him during firefighting operations. He was returned to duty with no injury. No civilian injuries occured at this incident. Two of the family cats were removed from the structure by firefighters, while a third cat was not found inside the home.
PROBABLE CAUSE: The probable cause of the fire was determined by witness statements to be a lightning strike to the roof of the structure.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Unknown at this time
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 24
MUTUAL AID: None Given
fire Press Release
ISSUING OFFICER: Brian Schaeffer, Assistant Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 7/14/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Multiple Alarms
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1405 East 30th Avenue Apartment B305
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99223
NARRATIVE: On Saturday, July 14, 2007 at 03:20 AM, 6 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 7 Engines, 3 Senior Ladders, 1 Pumper-Ladder and 1 Heavy Rescue under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Brown and Moline responded to a reported fire in an apartment at 1405 East 30th Avenue Apartment B305
The first company arrived within six-minutes (Station 11 was the closest station to the alarm, however they were already committed to another EMS call) to discover heavy smoke showing from the third floor apartment of a 3-story, 14-unit wood-frame apartment complex. Initial companies were utilized to simultaneously search the apartments on all three floors for victims and attack the fire. Due to the sheer number of residents, quickly escalating fire and deteriorating conditions the Incident Commander ordered a second alarm which assigned the abovementioned resources. Despite the amount of heat and head-start the fire had on first arriving companies, Firefighters were able to confine the blaze to the third floor, with only ancillary damage to units adjoining and below. The fire was under control in approximately 45 minutes. The presence of a functional smoke detector alerted other tenants of the apartment building which immediately called 911 and allowed them to escape the quick moving fire. One resident of the unit where the fire originated suffered second degree burns and was treated by SFD Paramedics and transported to Sacred Heart Hospital. A firefighter also received a musculoskeletal injury during the incident and was transported to Deaconess Hospital where he is still receiving care at the time of this release.
PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire remains under active investigation, however early interviews from residents indicate that it was most likely accidental and involves a candle. Definitive information will be released as it is available.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Monetary loss to the entire apartment building is still being tabulated. The Spokane chapter of the American Red Cross is assisting all of the residents as the building does not appear safe to occupy.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 38
MUTUAL AID: None Given
DATE OF INCIDENT: 7/14/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Multiple Alarms
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1405 East 30th Avenue Apartment B305
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99223
NARRATIVE: On Saturday, July 14, 2007 at 03:20 AM, 6 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 7 Engines, 3 Senior Ladders, 1 Pumper-Ladder and 1 Heavy Rescue under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Brown and Moline responded to a reported fire in an apartment at 1405 East 30th Avenue Apartment B305
The first company arrived within six-minutes (Station 11 was the closest station to the alarm, however they were already committed to another EMS call) to discover heavy smoke showing from the third floor apartment of a 3-story, 14-unit wood-frame apartment complex. Initial companies were utilized to simultaneously search the apartments on all three floors for victims and attack the fire. Due to the sheer number of residents, quickly escalating fire and deteriorating conditions the Incident Commander ordered a second alarm which assigned the abovementioned resources. Despite the amount of heat and head-start the fire had on first arriving companies, Firefighters were able to confine the blaze to the third floor, with only ancillary damage to units adjoining and below. The fire was under control in approximately 45 minutes. The presence of a functional smoke detector alerted other tenants of the apartment building which immediately called 911 and allowed them to escape the quick moving fire. One resident of the unit where the fire originated suffered second degree burns and was treated by SFD Paramedics and transported to Sacred Heart Hospital. A firefighter also received a musculoskeletal injury during the incident and was transported to Deaconess Hospital where he is still receiving care at the time of this release.
PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire remains under active investigation, however early interviews from residents indicate that it was most likely accidental and involves a candle. Definitive information will be released as it is available.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Monetary loss to the entire apartment building is still being tabulated. The Spokane chapter of the American Red Cross is assisting all of the residents as the building does not appear safe to occupy.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 38
MUTUAL AID: None Given
Friday, July 13, 2007
Fire Press Release
ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Steve Sabo
DATE OF INCIDENT: 7/12/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 3016 W. Bismark Ave.
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99205
NARRATIVE: At 2:15 PM today, Thursday, July 12, 2007, the Spokane Fire Department responded to a reported explosion and fire at 3016 W. Bismark Ave. Crews responding reported heavy smoke and flames visible from several blocks away. As crews arrived, they found a one-story single family home, with the attached garage fully involved in fire. The living area of the home was heavily charged with smoke, as was the attic area. Engine crews advanced hose leads into the garage as well as the living area. At the same time, one ladder crew searched the interior for victims, while another cut a hole in the roof for ventilation. There were no victims located, however, two cats were rescued and treated with oxygen at the scene, and a third cat was unaccounted for. The fire was knocked down and under control within 20 minutes. Crews remained on-scene for more than four hours completing final extinguishment. Ambient air temperatures approaching 100 degrees made conditions unusually difficult for firefighters. Extra fire crews from as far away as east central Spokane were brought in to provide relief for the exhausted initial attack crews. Two firefighters were transported to Deaconess Hospital, where they were treated for heat stress and dehydration. They were released and returned to complete the rest of their shift. There were no civilian injuries. The American Red Cross was making arrangements for lodging and clothing for the four family members who lived in the house.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Fire investigators determined the cause of the fire to be an overloaded electrical circuit supplying power to a wall mounted air conditioning unit. The reported explosions were caused by one empty and two partially full propane cylinders.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Damage to the home was extensive. The garage was totally destroyed, and fire heavily damaged the roof and ceiling area of the home nearest the garage. There was smoke and heat damage throughout the remainder of the home. Total damage is estimated at $70,000.
DOLLAR LOSS: 70,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 26
MUTUAL AID: None Given
DATE OF INCIDENT: 7/12/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 3016 W. Bismark Ave.
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99205
NARRATIVE: At 2:15 PM today, Thursday, July 12, 2007, the Spokane Fire Department responded to a reported explosion and fire at 3016 W. Bismark Ave. Crews responding reported heavy smoke and flames visible from several blocks away. As crews arrived, they found a one-story single family home, with the attached garage fully involved in fire. The living area of the home was heavily charged with smoke, as was the attic area. Engine crews advanced hose leads into the garage as well as the living area. At the same time, one ladder crew searched the interior for victims, while another cut a hole in the roof for ventilation. There were no victims located, however, two cats were rescued and treated with oxygen at the scene, and a third cat was unaccounted for. The fire was knocked down and under control within 20 minutes. Crews remained on-scene for more than four hours completing final extinguishment. Ambient air temperatures approaching 100 degrees made conditions unusually difficult for firefighters. Extra fire crews from as far away as east central Spokane were brought in to provide relief for the exhausted initial attack crews. Two firefighters were transported to Deaconess Hospital, where they were treated for heat stress and dehydration. They were released and returned to complete the rest of their shift. There were no civilian injuries. The American Red Cross was making arrangements for lodging and clothing for the four family members who lived in the house.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Fire investigators determined the cause of the fire to be an overloaded electrical circuit supplying power to a wall mounted air conditioning unit. The reported explosions were caused by one empty and two partially full propane cylinders.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Damage to the home was extensive. The garage was totally destroyed, and fire heavily damaged the roof and ceiling area of the home nearest the garage. There was smoke and heat damage throughout the remainder of the home. Total damage is estimated at $70,000.
DOLLAR LOSS: 70,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 26
MUTUAL AID: None Given
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Fire Press Release
ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Dan Brown
DATE OF INCIDENT: 7/11/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 8424 North Nevada st.
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99207
NARRATIVE: On the morning of July11 2007 at 03:48 Hrs the City of Spokane Fire Department responded 9 fire apparatus to a reported apartment fire in the Cedar Springs Apartment complex at 8424 North Nevada St. Fire Engine 18 responding from the 200 block of East Lincoln RD. reported a large column of black smoke showing. Upon arrival Engine 18 reported a fully involved apartment on the second floor of a 6 unit apartment complex. Fire attack was initiated using 2.1/2 and 13/4 inch pre-connected hose lines. A search was ordered and roof ventilation was started. A second alarm was requested which brought 3 more apparatus and overhead command to the scene. The main body of the fire was knocked down in about 20 minutes overhaul and final extinguishment took about 2 hours. The apartment of fire origin was a total loss and adjoining apartments suffered some water, smoke and overhaul damage. Red Cross assisted the tenants that were displaced by the fire. The firefighters that responded to this early morning alarm did an excellent job in confining this fire to the apartment on the second floor. No injuries were reported. The cause of this fire was a cigarette being placed in a flower pot on the deck igniting wood mulch in the pot and spreading fire to the exterior. Fire extended to a barbeque and set off a one pound propane tank causing an explosion. The fire department would like to remind everyone to be careful of open flame of any kind and use the proper containers to dispose of such items.
A total of 34 Firefighters and 6 additional command officers answered this alarm.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Cigarette in Flower pot
DAMAGE EXTENT: Total losss of the fire apartment and damage to adjoining apartments.
DOLLAR LOSS: 100,000.00
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 34
MUTUAL AID: None Given
DATE OF INCIDENT: 7/11/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 8424 North Nevada st.
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99207
NARRATIVE: On the morning of July11 2007 at 03:48 Hrs the City of Spokane Fire Department responded 9 fire apparatus to a reported apartment fire in the Cedar Springs Apartment complex at 8424 North Nevada St. Fire Engine 18 responding from the 200 block of East Lincoln RD. reported a large column of black smoke showing. Upon arrival Engine 18 reported a fully involved apartment on the second floor of a 6 unit apartment complex. Fire attack was initiated using 2.1/2 and 13/4 inch pre-connected hose lines. A search was ordered and roof ventilation was started. A second alarm was requested which brought 3 more apparatus and overhead command to the scene. The main body of the fire was knocked down in about 20 minutes overhaul and final extinguishment took about 2 hours. The apartment of fire origin was a total loss and adjoining apartments suffered some water, smoke and overhaul damage. Red Cross assisted the tenants that were displaced by the fire. The firefighters that responded to this early morning alarm did an excellent job in confining this fire to the apartment on the second floor. No injuries were reported. The cause of this fire was a cigarette being placed in a flower pot on the deck igniting wood mulch in the pot and spreading fire to the exterior. Fire extended to a barbeque and set off a one pound propane tank causing an explosion. The fire department would like to remind everyone to be careful of open flame of any kind and use the proper containers to dispose of such items.
A total of 34 Firefighters and 6 additional command officers answered this alarm.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Cigarette in Flower pot
DAMAGE EXTENT: Total losss of the fire apartment and damage to adjoining apartments.
DOLLAR LOSS: 100,000.00
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 34
MUTUAL AID: None Given
Monday, July 09, 2007
Fire Press Release
ISSUING OFFICER: Brian Schaeffer, Assistant Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 7/8/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1903 West Broadway
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201
NARRATIVE: On Sunday, July 8, 2007 at 4:02 PM, 6 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 3 Engines, 2 Senior Ladders and 1 Heavy Rescue under the direction of Battalion Chief Sabo responded to a reported fire in an apartment at 1903 West Broadway.
The first company arrived within four-minutes to discover smoke showing from the first floor apartment of a converted two-story wood-frame residential structure. Initial companies were utilized to simultaneously search the apartment for victims and attack the fire. Despite the amount of heat and extended burn time, Firefighters were able to confine the blaze to the room of origin, with only superficial damage to nearby kitchen and bedrooms. They extinguished the flames in just 10 minutes. The presence of a functional smoke detector alerted other tenants of the apartment building which immediately called 911. There were no injuries and the tenant was not home at the time of the fire.
PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Structural damage is minor, damage to contents and adjoining rooms is significant
DOLLAR LOSS: 20000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 22
MUTUAL AID: None Given
DATE OF INCIDENT: 7/8/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1903 West Broadway
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201
NARRATIVE: On Sunday, July 8, 2007 at 4:02 PM, 6 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 3 Engines, 2 Senior Ladders and 1 Heavy Rescue under the direction of Battalion Chief Sabo responded to a reported fire in an apartment at 1903 West Broadway.
The first company arrived within four-minutes to discover smoke showing from the first floor apartment of a converted two-story wood-frame residential structure. Initial companies were utilized to simultaneously search the apartment for victims and attack the fire. Despite the amount of heat and extended burn time, Firefighters were able to confine the blaze to the room of origin, with only superficial damage to nearby kitchen and bedrooms. They extinguished the flames in just 10 minutes. The presence of a functional smoke detector alerted other tenants of the apartment building which immediately called 911. There were no injuries and the tenant was not home at the time of the fire.
PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Structural damage is minor, damage to contents and adjoining rooms is significant
DOLLAR LOSS: 20000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 22
MUTUAL AID: None Given
Saturday, July 07, 2007
Three Fire Press Releases
ISSUING OFFICER: Ken Kirsch/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 7/7/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: Muliple
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP:
NARRATIVE: The City of Spokane Fire Department had a very busy day on 07/06/07, with several fire incidents taking place. Here are the highlights of each.
At 1659 hrs crews of the Spokane Fire Department responded to 2727 E. 53rd upon report of a structure fire. First arriving crews found four units of an apartment building heavily involved in fire. Several apartment buildings surrounded the units on fire. With winds coming from the west and the fire in the east most portion of the involved structure, another nearby apartment building was endangered. SFD crews were able to protect the surrounding apartment buildings by advancing exposure protection leads. In addition crews held the main body of fire to the four involved apartments. Other units in the building also suffered some fire, water and smoke damage. Fire crews did an outstanding job of limiting the spread of the fire in this incident. After extinguishment of the main body of fire, firefighters remained on scene throughout the night to monitor conditions. Firefighters will continue to be on scene today to assure that the fire is out. The cause of this fire is still under investigation.
One firefighter was injured during this incident. He suffered a leg injury when falling debris hit him. He was transported to a local hospital, treated, and did not return to duty. The injuries did not appear to be serious. No injuries were reported to civilians. Several pets did die during this incident.
The next fire incident occurred at 0018 hrs at 1107 N. Freya. This is a one story, masonry, commercial structure. The business is "Blue Ribbon Linen Supply". They specialize in linen and uniform rental service and in janitorial chemicals and supplies. First arriving crews found light smoke coming from the structure. SFD members advanced pre-connected hose-lines into the structure and found several carts of business goods on fire. Firefighters quickly extinguished the fire and removed fire damaged goods from the building. Fire damage was confined mainly to goods on the carts. Minor fire damage occurred to wall and ceiling surfaces in the area near the fire damaged carts. Smoke damage was evident throughout. Firefighters were on scene for approximately one and one half hours. No injuries were reported to firefighters. This fire will be investigated today. No cause has yet been determined.
At 0506 hrs on 07/07/07 units of the SFD responded to 1804 E Sharp upon report to a garage on fire. Smoke from the blaze could be seen from down-town. First arriving units found one garage fully involved in fire and the fire had ignited a nearby car and another garage. Firefighters used pre-connected hose-lines to quickly extinguish the blaze. The first garage was a total loss, with none of it remaining standing. The nearby car was also a total loss. The second garage suffered only minor damage. Fire investigators will be looking over this scene today in an attempt to determine the fire cause. No injuries were report at this scene.
After this busy night firefighters will try to catch their breath and prepare for any upcoming emergencies. With continued dry weather, and hot temperatures fire danger will remain high.
PROBABLE CAUSE: All incidents are under investigation.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Undtermined
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE:
MUTUAL AID: None Given
DATE OF INCIDENT: 7/7/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: Muliple
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP:
NARRATIVE: The City of Spokane Fire Department had a very busy day on 07/06/07, with several fire incidents taking place. Here are the highlights of each.
At 1659 hrs crews of the Spokane Fire Department responded to 2727 E. 53rd upon report of a structure fire. First arriving crews found four units of an apartment building heavily involved in fire. Several apartment buildings surrounded the units on fire. With winds coming from the west and the fire in the east most portion of the involved structure, another nearby apartment building was endangered. SFD crews were able to protect the surrounding apartment buildings by advancing exposure protection leads. In addition crews held the main body of fire to the four involved apartments. Other units in the building also suffered some fire, water and smoke damage. Fire crews did an outstanding job of limiting the spread of the fire in this incident. After extinguishment of the main body of fire, firefighters remained on scene throughout the night to monitor conditions. Firefighters will continue to be on scene today to assure that the fire is out. The cause of this fire is still under investigation.
One firefighter was injured during this incident. He suffered a leg injury when falling debris hit him. He was transported to a local hospital, treated, and did not return to duty. The injuries did not appear to be serious. No injuries were reported to civilians. Several pets did die during this incident.
The next fire incident occurred at 0018 hrs at 1107 N. Freya. This is a one story, masonry, commercial structure. The business is "Blue Ribbon Linen Supply". They specialize in linen and uniform rental service and in janitorial chemicals and supplies. First arriving crews found light smoke coming from the structure. SFD members advanced pre-connected hose-lines into the structure and found several carts of business goods on fire. Firefighters quickly extinguished the fire and removed fire damaged goods from the building. Fire damage was confined mainly to goods on the carts. Minor fire damage occurred to wall and ceiling surfaces in the area near the fire damaged carts. Smoke damage was evident throughout. Firefighters were on scene for approximately one and one half hours. No injuries were reported to firefighters. This fire will be investigated today. No cause has yet been determined.
At 0506 hrs on 07/07/07 units of the SFD responded to 1804 E Sharp upon report to a garage on fire. Smoke from the blaze could be seen from down-town. First arriving units found one garage fully involved in fire and the fire had ignited a nearby car and another garage. Firefighters used pre-connected hose-lines to quickly extinguish the blaze. The first garage was a total loss, with none of it remaining standing. The nearby car was also a total loss. The second garage suffered only minor damage. Fire investigators will be looking over this scene today in an attempt to determine the fire cause. No injuries were report at this scene.
After this busy night firefighters will try to catch their breath and prepare for any upcoming emergencies. With continued dry weather, and hot temperatures fire danger will remain high.
PROBABLE CAUSE: All incidents are under investigation.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Undtermined
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE:
MUTUAL AID: None Given
Friday, June 29, 2007
Fire Press Release
ISSUING OFFICER: Ken Kirsch/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 6/28/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 3807 E. 4th
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP:
NARRATIVE: On 06/28/07 at approximately 2223 hrs units of the Spokane Fire Department responded to 3807 E. 4th upon report of a structure fire. First arriving Fire Department members found a one story, wood-frame, storage building totally involved in fire. The building was located on an alley, behind the primary residence on the property. The primary residence was at no time endangered by the fire, but a nearby play-house suffered minor damage to the roof. Firefighters advanced pre-connected hose-lines to extinguish the main blaze, as well as to protect the nearby play-house. The fire was quickly brought under control within 15 minutes, with firefighters remaining on scene for about 90 minutes to conduct overhaul operations. A total of 20 firefighters on 9 trucks fought this blaze. No injuries were reported to either firefighters or civilians.
PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire is currently undetermined. Fire investigators will inspect the remains of the building, as well as conduct interviews later today.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The fire damaged building was a total loss. First units on the scene found the storage building fully involved in fire. After extinguishment significant overhaul was necessary to assure the fire was out, this included removing most of the roof covering. All areas of the interior of the structure were fire, water and smoke damaged.
DOLLAR LOSS: 10,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 20
MUTUAL AID: None Given
DATE OF INCIDENT: 6/28/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 3807 E. 4th
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP:
NARRATIVE: On 06/28/07 at approximately 2223 hrs units of the Spokane Fire Department responded to 3807 E. 4th upon report of a structure fire. First arriving Fire Department members found a one story, wood-frame, storage building totally involved in fire. The building was located on an alley, behind the primary residence on the property. The primary residence was at no time endangered by the fire, but a nearby play-house suffered minor damage to the roof. Firefighters advanced pre-connected hose-lines to extinguish the main blaze, as well as to protect the nearby play-house. The fire was quickly brought under control within 15 minutes, with firefighters remaining on scene for about 90 minutes to conduct overhaul operations. A total of 20 firefighters on 9 trucks fought this blaze. No injuries were reported to either firefighters or civilians.
PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire is currently undetermined. Fire investigators will inspect the remains of the building, as well as conduct interviews later today.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The fire damaged building was a total loss. First units on the scene found the storage building fully involved in fire. After extinguishment significant overhaul was necessary to assure the fire was out, this included removing most of the roof covering. All areas of the interior of the structure were fire, water and smoke damaged.
DOLLAR LOSS: 10,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 20
MUTUAL AID: None Given
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