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Early Friday morning, at 3:44am Cornelius Firefighters were dispatched to a reported house fire in the 1400 block of SW 345th Avenue, this is located just outside the city limits of Cornelius. Minutes later crews arrived to find a single story house with fire engulfing the whole rear of the house. Firefighters started attacking the flames from the exterior, but were challenged with estimated 10-15mph winds that were pushing the flames throughout the house. Because this house is located outside the city, there isn't a fire hydrant system, therefore, water had to be trucked into the scene on Water Tenders. It took several minutes for a mobile water supply system to be established allowing for the ability to effectively fight the flames. It took firefighters just over an hour to full extinguish the flames, and another two hours putting out hot spots.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but is believed to have started on or near the back patio deck close to a hot tub. The occupants were thankfully out of town during the fire and no injuries occured during the incident. A majority of the structure and its contents are considered a total loss with an estimated value of approximately $350,000, this includes a van that burned in the garage.
Cornelius Fire Department wants to remind everyone, that not all fires can be prevented, but if a fire occurs you can take steps to be prepared.
-Have a working smoke alarm on each floor of your house and in each bedroom. Also test it monthly.
-Know two ways out of every room in your house (through a door or window).
-Make sure all doors stay closed, this simple task can prevent fire from spreading into a room.
Cornelius Fire Department was assisted on scene by Forest Grove Fire & Rescue, Gaston Fire District, Hillsboro Fire & Rescue, Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue, Banks Fire District, Washington County Sheriffs Office and Red Cross.
Scene Information
Engines - 5
Water Tenders - 5
Support Unit - 1
Chiefs - 2
30 Total Firefighters
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