Tour Commander, 509.625.7100
Monday, April 19, 2021 at 2:24 p.m.
At approximately 07:36 am this morning, the Spokane Fire Department responded to the 4300 Block of North Maple Street on a report of a possible house fire. Initial reports from Spokane Fire Communications stated fire in a living room with possible people inside the home. Fire units arrived three minutes after dispatch and reported moderate smoke and flames from a single-story residence with a basement; additional smoke from the eaves and attic vents. Spokane Quint 13 and Spokane Engine 15 quickly made entry into the structure to begin a coordinated fire attack and search of the structure to ensure all occupants were safely out. Simultaneously, crews were sent to the roof, prepared to ventilate the structure to improve conditions and remove heat. The initial fire attack crews were able to extinguish the fire quickly, confining the fire to the living room preventing extension to the attic.
Thank you to the Spokane Police Department for assisting with traffic control on a busy arterial with school buses and students in the immediate area.
Six fire apparatus along with 21 firefighters responded to fight the fire. The fire was contained and extinguished within 5 minutes of units arriving on scene. One civilian was transported to the hospital with smoke inhalation, no other injuries to civilians or firefighters were reported.
The cause of the fire is under investigations by the Spokane Fire Special Investigation Unit.
The Spokane Fire Department would like to remind you, 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. Vape products that are charging should be supervised.