Fire crews respond to early morning kitchen fire

Michele Anderson, Public Safety Communications Manager

Tuesday, January 16, 2018 at 11:24 a.m.

At approximately 5:05 a.m., the Spokane Fire Department responded to the 1000 block of E. Dalton Ave. on a report of a residential structure fire. Arriving crews reported a kitchen fire in a basement apartment.

Two occupants were home at the time of the fire and escaped without any injuries. Due to a quick response and aggressive attack, firefighters were able to extinguish the fire within minutes. Crews performed a search of the entire structure, checked for extensions of the fire, used salvage covers to protect belongings, ventilated the structure and ensured the occupants were kept out of the elements.

The American Red Cross responded to assist the residents (1 adult and 1 child).

The fire caused damage to the kitchen and smoke damage throughout the apartment. The cause remains under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department’s Special Investigation Unit.

Below are some important safety tips for the kitchen:

  • Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol don’t use the stove or stovetop.
  • Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling or broiling food.
  • If you are simmering, baking or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the kitchen while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
  • Keep anything that can catch fire – oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains – away from your stovetop.

If you have a cooking fire:

  • Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.
  • Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you leave.
  • If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear way out.
  • Keep a lid nearby when you’re cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stovetop. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.
  • For an oven fire turn off the heat and keep the door closed.