Justin de Ruyter, Spokane Fire PIO, jderuyter@spokanecity.org
Tuesday, October 17, 2023 at 10:11 a.m.
At 3:55 a.m. today, your Spokane Fire Department responded to a report of a house fire in the 5100 block of West Ridgecrest Drive. During the response, dispatch updated responders that one adult, two children, and a family dog had safely evacuated and were waiting for the firefighters outside. Engine 17 arrived at the scene and found a two-story house with a basement where heavy smoke was present.
Engine 17 extended a hose to the basement and discovered a smoldering fire in the laundry room. They quickly extinguished the fire, ensuring it didn't spread into the walls or the floor above. Quint 13 arrived, confirmed the safe evacuation of all occupants and pets, and used positive pressure fans to ventilate the building.
A fire investigator was called to determine the cause of the fire, which is still under investigation. The estimated damage is primarily due to heavy smoke, totaling $30,000 in losses, while $425,000 worth of property was saved. Fortunately, no injuries were reported among civilians or firefighters.
As we approach the upcoming time change, Spokane Fire urges residents to test their smoke alarms and have a well-planned escape route in case of a fire. This plan should include two ways to exit bedrooms, a designated gathering point outside for everyone, and a means to alert 9-1-1.
