At 3:41 a.m. on July 11, 2018, Roseburg Fire Department personnel responded to a reported structure fire in a duplex with occupants still inside the structure. The occupant of the east unit, where the fire started, called 911 after being awaken by a smoke alarm and observing flames in the kitchen area of the structure. Firefighters arrived on scene to find the rear portion of the residential structure fully involved on fire and all occupants out of the structure.
Firefighters quickly extinguished the fire and were able to protect the surrounding residential homes to only limited damage. The east unit where the fire originated sustained significant structural and water damage. The adjacent unit suffered smoke damage. Two vehicles were destroyed during the fire and one vehicle had minor damage from the exposure. The east unit where the fire occurred had one male occupant that has been displaced and one dog was found deceased. The west unit had four occupants, including two adults and two children, which have been displaced as well.
A total of 13 firefighters assisted with firefighting operations. Other agencies assisting with the fire included Douglas County Fire District #2, Bay Cities Ambulance, Roseburg Police Department, Pacific Power, and Avista Utilities. A fire investigator was on scene and the exact cause of the fire is still under investigation.
This incident is a great reminder that smoke alarms save lives. It is important to have working smoke alarms and to test them monthly. Please remember, any smoke alarm ten years or older should to be replaced. Half of home fire deaths happened in homes without a working smoke alarm. Smoke alarms protect against injury and loss due to a fire. For increased protection, install a smoke alarm on every level of your home, outside sleeping areas (like a hallway), and in each bedroom.
It is also important to ensure your family has a fire escape plan. Fire escape plans allow your family to have a plan in place in case of a fire. Families should create a plan together, practice the plan together, and in case of a fire – escape together. It is important that everyone knows two ways out of every room. Make sure escape doors and windows are clear and easy to open. Your plan should include a safe meeting place outside. Remember – Get Out and Stay Out!
For the latest information regarding the City of Roseburg Fire Department, please visit our website at www.cityofroseburg.org or like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/roseburgfire.