[Press Release] : Evening fire damages garage

[Press Releases]

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
Contact: Battalion Chief Steven E. Sapp, Public Information Officer -
(573) 499-7035 

Evening fire damages garage 

COLUMBIA, MO (December 6, 2008) - The Columbia Fire Department
responded to a report of a fire at 3405 Shoemaker at 6:56 p.m. on
Saturday, Dec. 6. The homeowners, Robert and Kim Humphrey, reported a
fire in the attached garage of the home. 

Firefighters arrived to find light smoke in the garage and attic of the
home, but no active fire. The homeowner, Robert Humphrey, battled the
fire prior to the arrival of fire units with small buckets of water.
During that time, Humphrey suffered smoke inhalation, was evaluated on
the scene by University Hospital Paramedics, and refused medical
treatment. 

Humphrey was alerted to the fire when he and the occupants of the home
noticed smoke coming in around the door between the garage and the
home.

Fire investigators determined the fire began on top of the work bench
in the garage and was caused by a decorative candle left unattended.
Total damage was estimated at around $15,000. In addition to the fire
damage to the workbench and garage wall, a vehicle in the garage
suffered minor heat damage. The residents were expected to stay in the
home tonight. 

The Columbia Fire Department reminds residents to use care with candles
and never leave burning candles unattended, not even for a moment.
Candle fires are a leading cause of fire in Columbia and across the
United States. 

- 30 -
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