News Release from: Tualatin Valley Fire and Rescue
QUICK ACTION BY FIREFIGHTERS LIMITS DAMAGE TO TUALATIN HOME
Posted: March 5th, 2013 1:41 PM
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At 9:19 am today, crews from Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue were dispatched to a reported house fire at 3939 S.W. Halcyon Road in Tualatin. The occupants told 911 dispatchers that the home was filling with smoke, and that they were evacuating the residence. First arriving crews reported a fire on the exterior of the home, possibly extending into the basement. Firefighters quickly determined that all of the occupants of the home had made it out safely, as they began working to extinguish the fire. Firefighters had the fire under control within minutes of arriving on scene, and were able to limit the damage to a small corner in the basement. Fire crews remained on scene for about 40 minutes to overhaul the fire and check for hot spots.
A TVF&R fire investigator determined that the fire started in a wall in the basement area of the home, and then spread to the exterior. The exact cause of the fire is still under investigation. Fire investigators also reported that the home had working smoke alarms, and that the alarms aided in notifying the residents of the fire. There were no injuries reported to the homes occupants or the firefighters on scene. The home's five occupants were provided temporary housing by the American Red Cross. Damage to the home was estimated at $10,000.
At this time each year, fire departments across the nation remind the public to "Change their Clock...Change their Battery." This important campaign was developed to help ensure working smoke alarms in every home. Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue would like to encourage the public at this time to - Change your clock - change your smoke alarms if they are 10 years or older*. Smoke alarms have a life expectancy of about 10 years. As they age, the wiring, sensor, and other components begin to wear out. If you have an older 9-volt battery smoke alarm, take time this weekend to purchase and install a long-life lithium battery smoke alarm. These alarms are sold at all retail outlets in Oregon and help ensure many years of protection - without a battery change. In addition, many of these alarms include a 'hush' button that--when cooking smoke or shower steam sets off the alarm--can be pushed to deactivate the alarm for up to 15 minutes. The smoke alarm will then reset itself automa
tically.
Most fatal fires happen at night when people are sleeping. Working smoke alarms are designed to activate early to help ensure that you and your family have time to escape from your home. Smoke alarms should be placed on every level of your home outside of sleeping areas, and for optimal protection they should be placed in bedrooms also. The following tips should be followed to properly maintain your smoke alarm.
1. Test your smoke alarm monthly - push the 'test' button until it sounds. Include your children so they begin recognize the sound.
2. Never remove the battery for false alarms. Fan the smoke or steam or open a window.....or push the "hush" button if you have a newer alarm.
3. Smoke alarms have a life expectancy of about 10 years. As they age, the wiring, sensor, and other components begin to wear out. You should replace any alarm over 10 years old.
If you have questions about maintaining your smoke alarm, or need assistance with placing a smoke alarm in your home please contact TVF&R at 503-649-8577, or visit us on the web at www.tvfr.com
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