[Press Release] : FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Fire Damages West Central Columbia Home

[Press Releases]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Captain John Metz
Duty PIO Pager 573-441-6608 (24 hours - Leave detailed message)
Office 573-874-7644 (M-F, 8-5)


Fire Damages West Central Columbia Home

COLUMBIA, MO (August 25, 2012) - At 10:22 a.m. Saturday, August 25, 2012 the Columbia Fire Department responded to a reported residential structure fire at 306 Hirth Avenue in west central Columbia. As they responded, firefighters could see a column of smoke rising in the distance.

Columbia Firefighters arrived on the scene four minutes later at 10:26 a.m. and found a single-story home with heavy fire coming from the rear of the building and thick smoke pouring from the rest of the structure. Firefighters quickly knocked down the fire in the living area of the home but the fire had progressed into the home's attic and it took approximately 25 minutes to bring the fire under control.

The fire was discovered by the homeowner when she heard an unusual noise coming from the back of the house. As she was investigating the noise, neighbors began pounding on the front door and told the homeowner that the back of the house was on fire. After encountering difficulty opening the front door, the homeowner and her 12-year-old daughter exited the house through a front window.

Columbia Assistant Fire Marshal Lt. Brian Davison investigated the fire and determined the fire started as a result of an improperly discarded cigarette. Damage to the structure and contents is estimated at $65,000. The home is uninhabitable and the American Red Cross is providing assistance. The homeowner stated they have insurance on the building.

Three engines, a ladder truck, a rescue squad and two command vehicles responded to the incident. Firefighters remained on the scene for approximately three hours overhauling the fire damage. There were no injuries. The homeowner stated the family had a cat but she believes the cat was outside at the time of the fire.

The Columbia Fire Department wants to remind residents that working smoke alarms do save lives. Test your smoke alarms at least once a month by pressing the test button. Replace smoke alarm batteries at least once a year. Replace smoke alarms every 10 years. To ensure adequate protection, place smoke alarms in every sleeping room, and in a common area on every floor.


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