At approximately 3:49 am this morning the Spokane Fire Department responded to the 2900 Block of East Olympic in the Hillyard neighborhood on a report of a possible
apartment fire. Initial reports from Spokane Fire Communications stated a possible attic fire. Fire units arrived less than four minutes after dispatch and reported a fire on the
exterior of a two-story residence that had extended up the side of the structure and into the attic.
All occupants were able to make it out safely prior to Fire Department arrival due to correctly functioning smoke detectors. Spokane Quint 13 and Engine 15 quickly made entry
into the structure to begin a coordinated fire attack and conduct a thorough search of the structure. Simultaneously, crews were positioned to ventilate the structure which
improved smoke conditions and removed heat.
The fire was contained within 10 minutes of arrival. No injuries to civilians or firefighters were reported.
The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Spokane Fire Special Investigation Unit.
There was fire damage to the exterior of the structure as well as the attic and associated smoke damage as well as minor water damage from suppression efforts to the first and
second floors.
Estimated Dollar Loss: $100,000
Smoke Alarm: Alerted and was successful in waking sleeping occupants.
Educational Message: If you smoke, smoke outside. Be sure to use deep, sturdy ashtrays, or a metal can if an ashtray is not available. Before throwing out cigarette butts, use
water or sand to make sure that they are completely out. Do not ash or throw cigarettes in vegetation, potted plants, or directly into trash cans, as these can all easily catch fire.
Never smoke in bed. Keep cigarettes, lighters, matches, and other smoking materials out of reach of children preferably in a locked area that they do not have access to. Fires
have occurred with vaping products, including electronic cigarettes. These devices should be used with caution.
Original source can be found here.
