Spokane: Investigators Release Cause of Fatal House Fire
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~ Spokane Fire Department Concludes Investigation into Fatal House Fire

On Saturday, April 20, 2024, a tragic house fire at 1717 North Howard Street claimed the lives of several family members. After an extensive investigation by the Spokane Fire Special Investigations Unit, in collaboration with the Spokane Police Department's Major Crimes Unit and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, it has been determined that the fire was accidental.

According to Fire PIO Justin de Ruyter, an electrical malfunction caused the fire. Investigators identified an extension cord in place of permanent wiring as the point of failure. The fire originated on the front porch near the garage and quickly spread to the upstairs living quarters where the family members were located. It was also discovered that there were no functional smoke alarms in the residence.

Fire Chief Julie O'Berg expressed her condolences to the family and friends of the victims during this difficult time. "Our hearts go out to them as they process this tremendous loss," she said.

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The Spokane Fire Department is taking this opportunity to remind residents about important safety measures that can prevent such tragedies from occurring. They emphasize that all electrical modifications or additions should be done by licensed electricians through a permitted process. Extension cords should never be used as a substitute for permanent wiring.

In addition, it is crucial for every home to have working smoke alarms installed on every level, inside each bedroom, and outside bedrooms in hallways. These alarms should be tested twice a year during daylight saving time changes and replaced if they are more than ten years old.

To help ensure that homes in need have functioning smoke alarms, the Spokane Fire Department offers no-cost installations for households within city limits served by their department. To request this service, residents can call 509-625-7149 or email SFDSmokeAlarms@SpokaneCity.org. An online application is also available on their website at https://my.spokanecity.org/fire/prevention/educ....

The Spokane Fire Department hopes that by raising awareness about fire safety measures, they can prevent future tragedies like the one at 1717 North Howard Street. As Fire Chief O'Berg stated, "We want to do everything we can to keep our community safe."

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