Justin de Ruyter, Spokane Fire PIO, jderuyter@spokanecity.org
Wednesday, November 22, 2023 at 8:21 a.m.
On November 21, 2023, the Spokane Fire Department (SFD) units responded to a house fire in the 10100 block of N Fleetwood Drive, in the Indian Trail neighborhood, at approximately 6:50 PM. The incident, initially reported as an evacuation in progress, quickly escalated with reports of people trapped inside the residence.
Upon the arrival of the first unit, an off-duty SFD chief arrived at several neighbors attempting to assist at the front door amidst reports that one adult and two children were still inside. The incident was immediately upgraded, prompting the dispatch of additional ambulances and SFD apparatus for potential victim care.
The first engine arrived at the scene and quickly deployed a hose line to combat a kitchen fire. Simultaneously, other arriving companies conducted a thorough search of the residence. The search revealed that the reported victims, the two children, had already escaped the fire and sought refuge at a neighbor's house on an adjacent street.
As more units converged on the scene, firefighters successfully rescued several pets from the residence. While the house sustained significant fire damage, particularly in the kitchen, all occupants were accounted for without injury. The Incident Commander called in the Red Cross to assist one adult, five children, and several pets with accommodations.
Spokane County Fire District 9 and AMR provided invaluable assistance during the incident.
One neighbor was transported to a local hospital. No firefighters were injured, and the cause of the fire is under investigation.
Community Risk Reduction: Evacuation and Meeting Places
In response to this incident, the SFD wishes to emphasize the importance of an evacuation plan in every home. Identifying two ways out of each room and establishing a designated meeting place are crucial steps in ensuring safety during a fire. This designated meeting place, whether it be an adjacent neighbor's house, a specific tree, or a mailbox, serves as a vital location for all household members to gather and be accounted for. It is essential that everyone in the household understands the importance of going directly to this location in the event of a fire.
The quick and decisive actions of the SFD, combined with the community's awareness and cooperation, were vital in averting a greater tragedy. This incident serves as a reminder of the critical role that preparedness plays in community safety.
