SASKATOON – The careless disposal of solid fuel barbecue ashes resulted in a fire that caused about $150,000 in damage to a house in the 1100 block of Osler Street.
Saskatoon Fire Department (SFD) responded the multiple calls about the house fire at about 5:40 a.m. Friday morning.
Three fire engines, a ladder truck, a rescue unit and the SFD Battalion Chief responded. The first arriving fire crews reported visible flames on the back of the house.
Fire crews quickly battled the flames from the exterior to knock down the fire before they went inside the home to look for occupants. Everyone had safely exited the house before firefighters arrived on scene, says the fire department.
A fire investigator was requested, and utility companies were contacted to secure the natural gas and electrical services for the house.
Fire crews worked to ensure that the fire was fully extinguished, and that it didn’t extend into the walls, basement, or attic space. The crews used a positive pressure fan to assist in removing the smoke from the entire structure.
The scene was turned over to the fire investigator at 7:12 a.m. The fire investigator found that the smoke alarms were working and accredits their early warning to have helped alert the occupants. As a result of the early warning, everyone was able to safely get out of the house without injuries.
Saskatoon Fire Department wishes to take this opportunity to remind everyone of the importance of having working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms. Ensure they are routinely inspected for proper operation and that everyone knows to immediately exit the building in a safe manner when they are activated.
— Click for more from Crime, Cops and Court.