Tour Commander, 509.625.7100
Monday, May 15, 2023 at 8:20 a.m.
On May 13th, 2023, at approximately 8 PM, neighbors reported a large structure fire in the back of a home on South Dandy Court in the Latah Valley neighborhood. Incoming Spokane Fire Department (SFD) units reported a large column of black smoke visible from over a mile out.
Upon arrival, crews found the rear of the structure to be heavily involved with fire and threatening the homes on either side. Several trees on fire added to the fuel load and the potential to transfer the fire to the adjacent houses quickly. Due to the volume of fire and the risk of further property loss, a second alarm was called to ensure enough resources would be on hand to mitigate all contingencies, which brought mutual-aid assistance from Spokane County Fire District 8.
Crews attacked the fire aggressively from the interior while more attack hoses were positioned at the rear of the house to fight the advancing flames. All human occupants were reported to be out of the structure, with several pets remaining inside. SFD crews conducted rapid and thorough searches in high heat and low visibility to search for the pets and ensure that no one had been left behind. Two dogs were found inside, one of which was resuscitated using SFD's special pet oxygen mask and then transported to the Spokane Pet Emergency Clinic by AMR and is reported to be doing well. The second dog, sadly, was unable to be revived. Due to the hard work of SFD crews, the houses on either side were completely unharmed, even though the involved structure was heavily damaged on all floors.
The SFD Special Investigations Unit (SIU) is still investigating the cause and origin of the fire. There were no injuries to civilians or firefighters, and firefighters recovered several musical instruments. Red Cross is assisting the family members.
Educational Message: Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors, and should be placed well away from the home or deck railings. Grills should always be attended when in use. Regularly clean your grill and grease trays. Always make sure the lid to your grill is open before lighting it and keep fire starting items, such as BBQ lighters and charcoal starter fluid, out of the reach of children. Children and pets should be kept at least 3 feet away from grills.
