Twelve Lives Saved as People Got Out
THUNDER BAY – NEWS – Thunder Bay Fire Rescue is relieved that the smoke detectors were working at a Redwood Avenue home. Right now a fire investigation is ongoing into the cause of a fire which damaged a home on the morning of Wednesday, September 3rd 2014. Thunder Bay Fire Rescue is working with the Office of the Fire Marshal in the investigation
In a media statement from TBFR, “The initial reports are that approximately twelve persons escaped the fire in this duplex property after being awoken by a smoke alarm in the early hours of the morning”.
Fire Chief John Hay reinforced the importance of working smoke alarms, “This fire could have had a much more tragic result without the presence of working smoke alarms.”
Damage to the home has been estimated at $300,000.
No injuries were reported in the blaze which has left the home badly damaged.
Thunder Bay Fire Rescue Simple Steps for home fire escape planning include
- Everyone should know two ways out of each room, if possible
- All exits must be unobstructed and easy to use
- Determine who will be responsible for helping young children, older adults and anyone who needs assistance to escape
- Choose a meeting place outside, such as a tree or a lamp post, where everyone can be accounted for
- Call the fire department from outside the home, from a cell phone or neighbour’s home
- Practice your home fire escape plan
- Once out, stay out. Never re-enter a burning building
For people who live in apartment buildings and need assistance to escape
- Make sure you tell the superintendent or landlord you need assistance
- Know the emergency procedures outlined in the building’s fire safety plan
If a fire occurs in your home and you are unable to escape
- Close the door of the room you are in and cover vents and cracks around the door with cloth or tape to keep smoke out
- Call 9-1-1 or your fire department. Tell them where you are, then signal for help at the window with a light-coloured cloth or a flashlight
