The CSFD responded to two significant fires on Tuesday, October 17th within city limits. The following information is an update on both incidents.
Structure Fire - 628 Yuma St.: Early reports came in of smoke and fire coming from the side of the home. CSFD was notified by dispatch that a caller on scene stated there was a potential victim inside the home. Crews were dispatched at 3:07 p.m. The first company arrived at 3:15 p.m. As CSFD crews attempted to make entry to the home they were met with zero visibility and hoarder conditions. Firefighters worked to knock the fire down and discovered a deceased individual inside the residence. At that time our partners at the Colorado Springs Police Department Bomb/Arson and Homicide Units were called to respond and assist CSFD Fire Investigators. Two individuals were reported to have minor injuries. One patient was transported to a local hospital, the other refused transport services.
Inside and outside sleeping areas within the home did not have smoke alarms. Hoarding conditions inside and outside the home posed a great risk to firefighters and contributed to the severity of the fire. Those conditions can make fire attack difficult and can present other challenges including the possibility of structural collapse.
The bulk of the fire was knocked down at 3:30 p.m. A total of 40 CSFD personnel responded to the scene. The cause and origin of the fire will be determined by CSFD Fire Investigators.
Structure Fire - 2547 Weston Rd.: CSFD dispatch received a number of calls for a structure fire at an auto body repair shop. Crews were dispatched at 4:45 p.m. The first company arrived at 4:50 p.m. Upon arrival, crews were met with fire and smoke showing from the side of the building. A second alarm was called to add additional resources to the scene. Firefighters worked in a defensive mode due to the possibility of structural damage and roof collapse which could be seen from the CSFD drone. HazMat 14 was requested due to the change in smoke color and the unknown materials inside the body shop. Oftentimes body shops have oils, paints, and fuel which present a great danger to firefighters.
The cause of the fire was ruled accidental due to grinding operations. It is imperative businesses remember to maintain good housekeeping, remove combustibles, have fire extinguishers on hand, and not block exterior doors.
The fire was under control by 6:40 p.m. A total of 73 CSFD personnel responded to the scene.