Tour Commander, 509.625.7100
Thursday, January 9, 2020 at 2:29 p.m.
At 6:25 pm on January 7, 2020, the Spokane Fire Department (SFD) was dispatched to a residential structure fire at 2207 E Sinto Ave. Multiple calls were received by the SFD Dispatch center reporting a fire in a detached garage being used as a living space behind the home.
First arriving SFD apparatus were on scene within 5 minutes of dispatch. SFD units arrived to find a fire in the detached structure behind the home along with 1 adult male suffering from burn injuries. SFD crews immediately extinguished the fire, provided Advanced Life Support (ALS) to the adult male and searched for additional victims.
Reports from the victim and witnesses on scene were that the fire originated when the victim attempted to ignite a propane torch commonly used for soldering pipe. Initial findings indicate the igniter for the torch was improperly seated into the fuel canister. When the torch was lit, the free gas caused an uncontrolled fire to burn the adult male and ignite surrounding combustibles within the garage.
The SFD Special Investigations Unit (SIU) was on scene to determine the origin and cause of the fire. At this time, the cause of the fire is listed as accidental.
The burn victim was transported to a local hospital with serious injuries. There were no reported injuries to firefighters.
The value of the structure and contents are estimated at $5000. Damage as a result of the fire is estimated at $500.
SFD recommends that citizens using portable gas torches, heaters, or appliances ensure that they closely follow manufacturer recommendations. Do not use a leaking, damaged or malfunctioning torch or devices. Lastly, only work in well-ventilated areas.
