Cause of house fire in Logan neighborhood ruled accidental

Michele Anderson, Public Safety Communications Manager

Tuesday, April 17, 2018 at 1:46 p.m.

Fire investigators say a cigarette dropping on medical oxygen tubing caused yesterday’s house fire in the Logan neighborhood.

Just before 10:00 a.m., the Spokane Fire Department responded to the 700 block of E. Carlisle Ave. on a report of a residential structure fire. Initial details from fire dispatch reported a residence with smoke and flames emanating from the front of the home with an occupant still inside on oxygen.

Immediately after arriving on scene, crews upgraded the incident to a working fire ensuring additional resources responded. Firefighters quickly conducted a coordinated attack and brought the fire under control within minutes.

All occupants were reported out of the structure upon fire department arrival and was confirmed with a swift primary search by firefighters of the entire structure. No injuries to civilians or firefighters were reported after fire operations were complete.

The fire caused significant heat and smoke damage throughout the residence.

Yesterday’s fire serves as an important reminder about smoking and fire safety. Below are a few safety tips:

  • Smoke outside. Many things in your home can catch on fire if they touch something hot like a cigarette or ashes. It is always safer to smoke outside.
  • Put cigarettes out all the way. Do this every time. Don’t walk away from lit cigarettes and other smoking materials. Put water on the ashes and butts to make sure they are really out before you put them in the trash.
  • Be alert. Do not smoke after taking medicine that makes you tired. You may not be able to prevent or escape from a fire if you are sleepy or have taken medicine that makes you tired.
  • Never smoke around medical oxygen. Medical oxygen can explode if a flame or spark is near. Even if the oxygen is turned off, it can still catch on fire.
  • Never smoke in bed. Mattresses and bedding can catch on fire easily. Do not smoke in bed because you might fall asleep with a lit cigarette.
  • Put your cigarette out in an ashtray or bucket with sand. Use ashtrays with a wide base so they won’t tip over and start a fire.