Humboldt Bay Fire responded to two structure fires today

Humboldt Bay Fire responded to two separate structure fires that occurred today. The fires were unrelated and accidental.

Press Release 1:

On 11/18/18 at 5:25 P.M. Humboldt Bay Fire responded to a reported structure fire on the 1300 block of Gross Street in Eureka.

Humboldt Bay Fire responded with a first alarm assignment of three engines, one ladder truck, and a chief officer to a reported structure fire in the 1300 block of Gross Street in Eureka.

The first arriving engine reported significant smoke coming from single story residential structure. An occupant was attempting to extinguish a fire burning on an interior wall of the structure. Fire crews quickly extinguished the fire and removed the occupant to the outside. The occupant was evaluated for minor smoke inhalation but refused further treatment.

It was determined that the fire was caused by combustibles too close to a wood stove. The occupant was attempting to build a fire in the wood stove and embers ignited wood and other combustibles nearby, quickly spreading to the wall.

Firefighters remained on scene for about thirty minutes to remove smoke from the residence and to ensure there were no other hot spots. The fire caused about $2,500 damage.

Humboldt Bay Fire wants to remind everyone to keep combustibles such as newspaper and firewood at least three feet from wood stoves and fireplaces and to always have functioning smoke alarms.

Press Release 2:

On 11/18/18 at 1:57 P.M. Humboldt Bay Fire responded to a reported structure fire on the 1400 block of John Hill Rd. in Eureka.

Humboldt Bay Fire responded with one fire engine to a reported power line down causing a small fire outside of the residence. Upon further investigation the engine company officer located fire beginning to build inside an attached office area to the rear of the two-story Victorian structure.

A full first alarm assignment was requested. Two additional fire engines, a ladder truck, and a chief officer responded. The down power line created an immediate hazard to responding personnel. Pacific Gas and Electric promptly responded to the scene and de-energized the service line.

Fire crews attacked the fire and had it extinguished within ten minutes. Additional fire personnel confirmed all occupants and animals were out of the house and safe. Fire personnel remained on scene for about an hour to remove smoke from the structure and to ensure the electrical issues had not caused any additional fires within the structure. The fire caused approximately $5,000 damage.

The cause of the fire was directly related to the power service being damaged by a tree on the property that had fallen in to the power source for the house.

Humboldt Bay Fire wants to remind everyone to stay away from any downed power lines. Although there may not be any sign of electricity, the line may still be energized and dangerous.