Structure Fire 320 Second Street
The first arriving crew found light smoke coming from the front of the two story businesses. The crew gained access to the structure, found heavy smoke inside, located and extinguished the fire. Additional arriving units established a water supply, ventilated the structure using electric fans to remove the smoke, turned off the utilities, and searched the businesses for occupants and fire extension. The fire had not extended into the ajoining business and was controlled in approximately 15 minutes, with crews remaining on scene for approximately three hours for overhaul and investigation. All occupants were out of all of the businesses upon fire department arrival and reported no injuries.
Fire investigators linked the cause of the fire to spontanious combustion from the improper storage of floor finish soaked rags. Fire, smoke, heat and water damage to the structure and contents are initially estimated to be approximately $20,000.
Humboldt Bay Fire would like to remind everyone to follow manufacturers recommendation on the safe storage and disposal of oil soaked rags.
Have working smoke detectors inside homes and ensure that the batteries are replaced twice a year. They do save lives!
Residential Structure Fire 3494 Albee Street
The first arriving engine found heavy smoke and fire coming from the front of the single story residence. The crew gained access to the structure and began extinguishing the fire. Additional arriving units established a water supply, ventilated the structure through the roof to remove the smoke, turned off the utilities, and searched the house to check for trapped occupants and fire extension. The fire had extended into the attic and was controlled in approximately 30 minutes, with crews remaining on scene for approximately four hours for overhaul and investigation. All occupants were already out of the residence upon fire department arrival and reported no injuries however several pets were killed in the fire.
Explosive device forces evacuation
The fire was initially controlled within 20 minutes and was contained to a single apartment with crews performing fire attack, ventilation, search and RIC functions. The apartment's two residents were able to escape the flames before firefighters arrived but suffered significant burns and were transported to St. Joesph Hospital.
The initial fire was knocked down within 15 minutes and firefighters began overhaul and salvage operations when a possible explosive device was located in a closet. All firefighters were evacuated from the building and the Sherriff's Bomb Squad was requested. The forced evacuation caused interior firefighting operations to be discontinued and consequently the fire grew over a two hour period, extending throughout the entire apartment complex and adjoining house. Fire crews had to perform exterior attacks to knock the fire back until a bomb technician was finally able to enter the structure and remove the explosive device. Firefighters were then able to reenter the structure and control the fire. Firefighters remained at the location for over six hours. The cause of the fire is under investigation. Losses are estimated to be $2,000,000 for the structure and $100,000 for the contents.
Structure fire, Little Fairfield St.
The first arriving engine found heavy smoke and fire coming from the front of the single story residence. The crew established a water supply and gained access to the structure. Additional arriving units ventilated the structure through the roof to remove the smoke, turned off the utilities, and searched the house to check for trapped occupants and fire extension. The fire had extended into the attic and was controlled in approximately 25 minutes, with crews remaining on scene for approximately three hours for overhaul and complete extinguishment. The occupant was already out of the residence upon fire department arrival and suffered some inhalation and secondary degree burns when he attempted to re-enter the structure searching for his pets. He refused transport by ambulance personnel.
Nighttime Water Rescue Incident by Humboldt Bay Fire
Due to the cold water conditions and darkness this incident was determined to be a High Risk incident for rescue personnel. However, Humboldt Bay Fire units arrived on scene and deployed rescue swimmers in to the bay as they were aware of the reduced survival time of poorly equipped victims. Other personnel prepared for downstream operations should the tide carry the victim away from the rescue swimmers. As the rescue swimmers crossed the 300 foot wide channel, the victim was able to make his way to shore on Indian Island. The rescue swimmers crossed the entire channel in seven minutes, locating the victim laying in mud and grass. At that point the rescue swimmers quickly assessed the patient who was showing signs of severe hypothermia and an altered level of consciousness.
The rescue swimmers then relocated the victim to Highway 255 at the north end of the first span of the bridge where additional Humboldt Bay Fire and EMS personnel were able to begin treatment of the victim. At that point the rescue swimmers were medically assessed due to the cold water temperatures. The victim was transported to St. Joseph Hospital for further treatment. The rescue swimmers declined further treatment.
This incident's success is the direct result of the early notification by passersby, combined efforts of emergency services and the U.S. Coast Guard who provided significant support, and Humboldt Bay Fire's recent formation of a certified Water Rescue Team. Humboldt Bay Fire wants to remind everyone that Humboldt Bay is extremely cold water and can cause hypothermia in a short time. Please use caution around the water.
$181,000.00 Grant for Fire Protection Systems for Eureka Fire Stations
The City's Headquarters station was built in 1973 and the Myrtle Avenue and Henderson Street stations were built in 1957. Building codes at that time did not require the installation of these systems.
In buildings equipped with fire sprinklers the fire death rate is reduced by 83% and property damage by 40-70%. Fire alarm systems provide early notification of fire including when the building is unoccpied.
The grant was awarded through the Federal Assistance to Firefighters grant program. The goal of the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program is to assist firefighting and emergency response organizations in obtainaing
Structure Fire
The fire was determined to be caused by faulty wiring and damage to the building was estimated at $5000.00. All occupants were displaced due the disconnection of electrical service. Red Cross is providing assistance for the displaced occupants. There were no injuries to occupants or fire personnel.
With the Holidays upon us, please check your smoke alarms for proper operation. Limit extension cord usage, properly maintain your water level in the Christmas trees and if you use candles, have them safely contained.
Two Heater Caused Fires This Weekend
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Subject :
Winter Time Heater Fire Safety
Two Heater Caused Fires This Weekend
Contact :
Rusty Goodlive, Fire Marshal
Smoke Alarms Save Lives.
This last weekend the Eureka Fire Department and Humboldt Fire District #1 responded to two fires caused by combustible materials placed on top of or too close to heaters.
The Eureka Fire Department and Humboldt Fire District #1 historically responds to several heater related fires at this time of year.
Often occupants think a furnace has been turned off because they have adjusted the thermostat to the lowest setting. This does not turn the furnace off; rather the furnace is set to the lowest temperature setting. When the temperature falls below the lowest setting on the thermostat the heater will still turn on. Combustibles placed on or near the heater can ignite and start a fire.
While combustible materials stored too close to all types of heaters are a fire hazard, historically in Eureka this has been a recurring problem with floor heaters. During the warmer weather rugs or other combustible materials may be placed on top of or next to a floor heater. When the temperature falls and the heaters turn on these materials ignite and cause a fire in the building.
It was fortunate that both of these fires started early in the evening and were noticed. No one was injured and early notification and arrival of the Fire Department limited the damage. Other floor fire caused heater fires have resulted in major damage to the homes.
Here are some safety tips for all types of heaters:
Do not place floor coverings, clothing, or furniture over floor furnaces or in front of wall heaters.
Move combustibles away from all types of heaters including floor, wall heaters and in forced air heater closets.
Have your furnace cleaned and serviced to insure safe and efficient operation.
Inspect the walls and ceiling near the furnace or heater; if the wall is hot to the touch or discolored, stop using it and have the appliance checked by a qualified technician.
If you heat with wood, move combustibles at least 36” away from the stove or fireplace. This applies to furniture as well.
Never discard hot ashes inside or near the home or on a wooden deck. Place them in a metal container outside and well away from the house or other buildings.
Have your stove pipe, chimney, or flue cleaned and inspected prior to use.
Your fire departments are hoping to avoid furnace, heater, and woodstove fires this year and in the future by reminding our communities of these steps to help make the use of such appliances safe.
Thank you for your cooperation.
Released By:
Rusty Goodlive
Fire Marshal
Contact:
Eureka Fire Department
Phone Number:
(707) 441-4000
####
Natural Gas Leak Closes 5th Street, Causes Evacuation
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Subject :
Natural Gas Leak Closes 5th Street, Causes Evacuation
Contact :
Bill Gillespie, Assistant Chief, Eureka Fire Department
Smoke Alarms Save Lives.
On Friday, December 2, 2011 at 8:09 AM units from Eureka Fire Department and Humboldt #1 Fire Protection District responded to a report of a natural gas leak in front of 317 5th Street. First arriving units found a sidewalk vault that had been driven onto by a delivery truck. The vault cover had collapsed under the weight of the truck, and one of the gas lines present inside had been damaged, causing the natural gas leak. PG&E was requested to the scene.
Fire units closed 5th Street at C Street, as well as D and E Streets near 5th. Eureka Police Department arrived and helped with traffic control. 5th Street (northbound Highway 101) traffic was rerouted to 7th Street at C Street. The occupied businesses on 5th between D and E Streets were evacuated to protect the occupants in the event the natural gas ignited. PG&E arrived on scene and initially was able to reduce the flow of gas from the damaged pipe, but could not completely stop the leak. Additional PG&E crews arrived, and a
Structure Fire Structure Fire
At 1808 hrs multiple reports of flames showing from a structure located at 609 Summer Street were received.
Incident Found on Arrival: Arriving fire department units found heavy flames coming from the front of a 2 story victorian residence. The residence has buildings located closely to each side that were threatened. City Ambulance and Pacific Gas and Electric were requested for posible medical issues and a downed electrical service line.
Action Taken: The fire was quickly reduced by a hoseline operated by the first in apparatus, crews accessed the first floor apartment and extinguished the fire in the room of origin. Additional crews accessed the second floor apartment and found fire located within the walls and attic. The fire was controlled at 1834 hrs. Extensive overhaul was performed to ensure the fire was completely extinguished. The neighboring structures were not involved due to the quick knockdown of the fire. All of the occupants of the residence were accounted for outside. Several residents were displaced by the fire, Red Cross responded with assistance. During the initial phase of the fire a 2nd alarm was sent requesting an additional engine company to the scene and a recall of all available personel. Arcata Fire Department sent 1 engine and a battalion to cover Eureka and Humboldt while the fire was in progress. During the fire, a 911 phone call diverted the additional engine company to a possible fire in a residence. Nothing was found. As of this morning the fire at 609 Summer Street remains under investigation for cause. Additional information will be released as available.
Damage/Loss:
Significant fire damage and loss to the contents on the first floor and fire damage to the second floor walls, ceiling and attic
The loss is estimated at $100000.00
ESTIMATED PROPERTY VALUE SAVED: $200000.00
Other: Smoke detectors save lives. Please take the time to protect your family and property by installing and maintaining smoke detectors in your residence. Contact your local fire department for more information.
Thanksgiving safety
- Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stovetop so you can keep an eye on the food.
- Stay in the home when cooking your turkey and check on it frequently.
- Keep children away from the stove. The stove will be hot and kids should stay 3 feet away.
- Make sure kids stay away from hot food and liquids. The steam or splash from vegetables, gravy or coffee could cause serious burns.
- Keep the floor clear so you don’t trip over kids, toys, pocketbooks or bags.
- Keep knives out of the reach of children.
- Be sure electric cords from an electric knife, coffee maker, plate warmer or mixer are not dangling off the counter within easy reach of a child.
- Keep matches and utility lighters out of the reach of children — up high in a locked cabinet.
- Never leave children alone in room with a lit a candle.
- Make sure your smoke alarms are working. Test them by pushing the test button.
Toy Drive Kick Off
EUREKA FIREFIGHTERS
AND HUMBOLDT FIREFIGHTERS
“Share the Magic of Christmas” Toy Drive
and “Santa for Seniors”
Press Release and Informational Sheet
November 4, 2011
Important Dates:
November 21, 2011 at 1:00 p.m. – Toy Drive Kick Off
The media is encouraged to attend the Toy Drive kick off at the Toy Barn in the Bayshore Mall.
November 25 & 26 – Bayshore Mall Center Court
We will be collecting toys at the Bayshore Mall.
December 2, 3, & 4 – Humboldt County Artisans Craft Fair
We will be collecting toys at the Humboldt County Artisans Craft Fair at Redwood Acres. Bring a toy and get in the fair free!
We will also accept cash donations for the Santa for Senior’s program.
How Long: We will collect toys and donations until December 16, 2011
Who: Eureka and Humboldt Firefighters are collecting toys and giving them to the Salvation Army for local distribution. Our goal each year is to distribute toys to over 600 families. We will also be accepting donations for the Fourth Annual Santa for Seniors program which provides gifts for local seniors in need.
Drop Off Locations:
Eureka Fire Department Headquarters 6th & C
Eureka Fire Station #3 Henderson & Ocean
Eureka Fire Station #4 Myrtle & Cousins
Humboldt Fire Station #12 Herrick & Vance
State Farm Insurance Offices All Eureka locations
Plaza Design 2nd & G, Eureka Location Toy Barn Bayshore Mall
Eureka City Hall 531 K Street
Humboldt County Social Services 929 Koster Street
Les Schwab Tire 2440 Broadway
Carpet Express 2510 Broadway
George Peterson Insurance 416 E Street
Crossfit Eureka 3134 Jacobs Ave
Starbucks Coffee 1117 Myrtle Ave
Starbucks Coffee 326 5th Street
“SHARE THE MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS” TOY DRIVE
Firefighters will be collecting “new” toys, which the Salvation Army will distribute, to children in our community that may not otherwise receive a new toy for Christmas this year. All the toys collected are distributed to local children ages 0 to 12 in Humboldt County. Each year we hope to help over 600 Families!
This event provides an opportunity for citizens and firefighters to “SHARE THE MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS” and do something positive for the local community.
Toys can be dropped off at any Eureka or Humboldt Fire Stations and numerous local businesses.
We will collect toys at the Bayshore Mall on November 25th and November 26th.
We will collect toys at the Humboldt County Artisans Craft Fair at Redwood Acres on Dec 2nd, 3rd, and 4th. Bring a toy and get in free!!
All donated toys are given to local Humboldt County Kids!
SANTA FOR SENIORS
In addition to the Eureka & Humboldt Firefighter’s Toy drive, we are proud to be continuing the 4th Annual Santa for Seniors program. This year we are partnering with the Humboldt Senior Resource Center.
All donations to Santa for Seniors will go to the Humboldt Senior Resource Center’s White Bag Program. This great program provides local Senior citizens with a Holiday box filled with some food treats for the holidays. They hope to assemble, wrap, and deliver over 400 boxes this year!
We all think of the kids at Christmas time, but a group in our community that is often overlooked is the senior citizens. There are many local seniors who are alone, have no family or money, they receive no gifts, and miss out on the type of Christmas many of the rest of us are able to enjoy with our own families.
By making a cash donation to the Santa for Seniors, you can help share the gift of Christmas with an elderly person in our community who is less fortunate than yourself!
For further information regarding the Santa for Seniors or the Eureka & Humboldt Firefighter’s Toy Drive, you can contact Firefighter Yolla Montalbin at the Eureka Fire Department 441-4000.
“Share the Magic of Christmas” Toy Drive and “Santa for Seniors”
EUREKA FIREFIGHTERS
AND HUMBOLDT FIREFIGHTERS
November 4, 2011
Important Dates:
November 21, 2011 at 1:00 p.m. – Toy Drive Kick Off
The media is encouraged to attend the Toy Drive kick off at the Toy Barn in the Bayshore Mall.
November 25 & 26 – Bayshore Mall Center Court
We will be collecting toys at the Bayshore Mall.
December 2, 3, & 4 – Humboldt County Artisans Craft Fair
We will be collecting toys at the Humboldt County Artisans Craft Fair at Redwood Acres. Bring a toy and get in the fair free!
We will also accept cash donations for the Santa for Senior’s program.
How Long: We will collect toys and donations until December 16, 2011
Who: Eureka and Humboldt Firefighters are collecting toys and giving them to the Salvation Army for local distribution. Our goal each year is to distribute toys to over 600 families. We will also be accepting donations for the Fourth Annual Santa for Seniors program which provides gifts for local seniors in need.
Drop Off Locations:
Eureka Fire Department Headquarters 6th & C
Eureka Fire Station #3 Henderson & Ocean
Eureka Fire Station #4 Myrtle & Cousins
Humboldt Fire Station #12 Herrick & Vance
State Farm Insurance Offices All Eureka locations
Plaza Design 2nd & G, Eureka Location Toy Barn Bayshore Mall
Eureka City Hall 531 K Street
Humboldt County Social Services 929 Koster Street
Les Schwab Tire 2440 Broadway
Carpet Express 2510 Broadway
George Peterson Insurance 416 E Street
Crossfit Eureka 3134 Jacobs Ave
Starbucks Coffee 1117 Myrtle Ave
Starbucks Coffee 326 5th Street
“SHARE THE MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS” TOY DRIVE
Firefighters will be collecting “new” toys, which the Salvation Army will distribute, to children in our community that may not otherwise receive a new toy for Christmas this year. All the toys collected are distributed to local children ages 0 to 12 in Humboldt County. Each year we hope to help over 600 Families!
This event provides an opportunity for citizens and firefighters to “SHARE THE MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS” and do something positive for the local community.
Toys can be dropped off at any Eureka or Humboldt Fire Stations and numerous local businesses.
We will collect toys at the Bayshore Mall on November 25th and November 26th.
We will collect toys at the Humboldt County Artisans Craft Fair at Redwood Acres on Dec 2nd, 3rd, and 4th. Bring a toy and get in free!!
All donated toys are given to local Humboldt County Kids!
SANTA FOR SENIORS
In addition to the Eureka & Humboldt Firefighter’s Toy drive, we are proud to be continuing the 4th Annual Santa for Seniors program. This year we are partnering with the Humboldt Senior Resource Center.
All donations to Santa for Seniors will go to the Humboldt Senior Resource Center’s White Bag Program. This great program provides local Senior citizens with a Holiday box filled with some food treats for the holidays. They hope to assemble, wrap, and deliver over 400 boxes this year!
We all think of the kids at Christmas time, but a group in our community that is often overlooked is the senior citizens. There are many local seniors who are alone, have no family or money, they receive no gifts, and miss out on the type of Christmas many of the rest of us are able to enjoy with our own families.
By making a cash donation to the Santa for Seniors, you can help share the gift of Christmas with an elderly person in our community who is less fortunate than yourself!
For further information regarding the Santa for Seniors or the Eureka & Humboldt Firefighter’s Toy Drive, you can contact Firefighter Yolla Montalbin at the Eureka Fire Department 441-4000.
Smoke Alarms Save Lives.
- Replace your Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarm Batteries When You Change Your Clocks
If your battery powered smoke alarm is over ten years old, alarm manufactures’ recommend replacing the entire smoke alarm. Even if you have not had a problem with your smoke alarm, the technology has improved and an older alarm may not sound an alarm as quickly as the newer models. Carbon monoxide alarms are now required in your home. This is an excellent time to purchase a new CO alarm or smoke alarm if you do not have them in your home.