Tour Commander, 509.625.7100
Thursday, December 15, 2022 at 7:52 a.m.
At 1:05 pm on Wednesday, December 14, 2022, the Spokane Fire Department (SFD) was dispatched to a commercial structure fire at 2815 East 27th Avenue. A US Postal Service delivery employee observed smoke from the apartment when he was delivering mail and called 911
Firefighters arrived within 4 minutes of dispatch to find smoke from a third-floor unit of a three-story apartment building. Firefighters entered the apartment unit and rapidly extinguished the fire inside while simultaneously searching for potential victims. Fortunately, the apartment occupant was not at home at the fire's discovery.
A total of 30 firefighters worked to contain and extinguish the fire. In addition, they successfully prevented any significant fire extension beyond the apartment of origin. As a result, the combined value of the building and contents saved by SFD's efforts exceed over 2 million dollars.
Thankfully there were no reported injuries to civilians or firefighters. But, unfortunately, four cats that lived in the apartment did expire.
This fire displaced one adult.
The cause of the fire was investigated by members of the SFD's Special Investigation Unit (SIU). The cause was determined to be electrical.
Educational Message: Electrical work should be done only by a qualified professional. If you are having recurring problems with blowing fuses or tripping circuit breakers, experiencing a tingling feeling when you touch an electric appliance, or have flickering lights, call a qualified professional. Major appliances (such as refrigerators, stoves, washing machines, dryers, window air conditioning units, etc.) should be plugged directly into a wall outlet. Extension cords should not be used for major appliances, as they can quickly overheat and start a fire. Small devices should be plugged directly into wall outlets and unplugged when not in use. Wall outlets and light switches should be covered with plates to prevent shocks. Replace wall outlets if plug-ins do not fit snugly in the outlet. Only buy appliances and other electronics that a qualified testing laboratory lists. This is especially important to be mindful of when shopping online. Be sure to check electrical cords often. Cords that are cracked, damaged or loose should be replaced.
