[Press Release] : Fire damages north Columbia duplex

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
Contact: Captain Eric Hartman - (573) 874-7644

Fire damages north Columbia duplex

COLUMBIA, MO (November 30, 2008) - Columbia firefighters were called at
9:40 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 30, to 1302 Elleta Blvd. for a report of a
structure fire.

Firefighters arrived and found heavy smoke coming from the front door
of the home. Fire crews entered the structure and found flames inside a
bedroom, which were extinguished within 10 minutes. Crews then used
large electric fans to remove the remaining smoke from the home and the
adjoining side of the duplex. Crews used thermal imaging cameras to
ensure there was no area of hidden fire throughout the structure. The
fire and water damage was contained to the 1302 side of the duplex, with
significant smoke damage throughout the entire structure. There were no
injuries and damage is initially estimated at $75,000. The building is
owned by the Columbia Housing Authority.

The occupant, Carolyn Reynolds, reported to fire crews that she was
away from the home visiting a relative and when she returned home, she
opened the front door and was met by smoke and heat. After a few
seconds, Reynolds said she could see the flames inside the home. She
then called 9-1-1 for fire department assistance.

The home did have working smoke alarms which were operating when fire
crews arrived.

Residents are urged to ensure they have working smoke alarms installed
on each level of their home and outside each sleeping area. Smoke alarms
save lives!

- 30 -
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