Structure Fire: 467 Cherry Drive
February 16, 2016
Alarm Type: Structure Fire
Alarm Time: 19:29
Units Arrival Time: 19:37
Fire Out: Ongoing
Steamboat Springs Fire Rescue was dispatched to 467 Cherry Drive to the report of a loud explosion and a structure on fire. Response included 8 on-duty personnel staffing one Fire Engine and 2 ambulances, law enforcement officers from SSPD, and 10 off duty personnel staffing an additional Fire Engine, Ladder Truck, a Staff Vehicle. Initial arriving units reported a gas fueled fire on the exterior of the Duplex with heavy flames spreading into the roof of the structure. Using hose lines fire crews knocked most of the flames on the exterior of the structure but had to keep from extinguishing the gas fueled fire to avoid potential additional gas explosions. Additional arriving off duty personnel provided staffing to do interior search for any residents or pets.
Once the residence was determined to be empty fire crews were able to focus on trying to find a way to shut off the gas supply which was continuing to feed the fire as the gas meter was buried in the snow with fire covering the pipes. While waiting for Atmos Energy to send an emergency crew from home, fire fighters were able to cut a hole from the interior of the garage and reach a gas shut off on the outside the garage that was otherwise unreachable due to the exterior gas fire. Once the gas source was shut off fire crews focused on saving personal belongings in the residence and extinguishing remaining burning parts of the residence.
Firefighters are currently still on scene working on extinguishing the fire as it had spread in to a tongue and groove roof. No residents or firefighters were injured in the fire. Damage to one side of the duplex is estimated at $150,000 and will result in the displacement of the tenant from the other side.
The official cause of the fire is still under investigation however it is thought to be related to snow sliding off the roof striking a gas line and some ignition source. With the recent thaw and melt of snow on roofs Steamboat Springs Fire Rescue would like to remind homeowners to check where ice and snow has slid around gas lines. If homeowners notice any damage they should contact their utility company and if they smell a gas leak evacuate the area, contact the fire department, and remain a safe distance away until either the utility company or fire department determines that it is safe.
For further questions please contact Deputy Chief Cerasoli at 970-846-5974. Pictures are attached to the email.
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