Fire Displaces West Longview Family -06/27/23

Longview, WA.  Crews from Longview Fire Department and Cowlitz 2 Fire and Rescue were dispatched to the report of black smoke coming from the attached garage of a house on the west-end of the city.  A first arriving CCSO Deputy confirmed heavy fire in the garage extending to the home, which triggered a second alarm response from the 911 Center. 

Longview’s Station 82 Engine crew arrived and reported a working fire in the garage of a single-story residential structure.  Heavy smoke and flames were visible and forced them to spot apparatus away from the scene to safely deploy hose lines.  Next arriving crews evacuated neighboring exposed residences and provided support to the offensive fire attack.  The fire was quickly extinguished, confining it to the garage and attic space overhead.  A search of the home confirmed everyone had been safely accounted for. 

Although the fire was confined to the garage, the home suffered severe smoke and heat damage.  “We don’t want residents to return to their homes for belongings, but if they can shut doors on the way out of the house it will help minimize the overall damage and spread of fire in the residence,” stated Battalion Chief Matt Amos. BC Amos organized board-up services to secure the home after the incident. “We utilize specialty contractors to secure homes after incidents such as this,” stated BC Amos.  “The donated service by our local SERVPRO and others like them are appreciated,” he also stated. 

A family of five and their dog were displaced due to the sustained damage to the home.  They are receiving assistance from The American Red Cross and the Longview Union Firefighters Local 828 voucher program, which is funded by 828’s hole-in-one golf event during Longview’s Go Fourth celebration.

No injuries were reported.  Cowlitz PUD responded to isolate electrical service to the home.  The cause of the fire is still under investigation by Longview Fire’s Investigation Team.   

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