Spokane: Child Injured in Basement Fire Reminds About Youth Fire Setting

~ On Sunday afternoon, a house fire broke out in the 1200 block of East 33rd Ave in Spokane. According to reports, the fire originated from the basement and quickly spread throughout the home. The Spokane Fire Department was alerted to the incident at 4:23 p.m. and immediately dispatched responders to the scene.

Upon arrival, Engine 11 from the Comstock neighborhood observed flames coming from a basement window. Firefighters wasted no time in entering the home to extinguish the fire and conduct a search for any potential victims. At the same time, other responders assessed two individuals who had been affected by the fire.

During their search, firefighters discovered an unconscious dog and were able to revive it with oxygen outside of the home. The fire was brought under control within 15 minutes, but not before causing significant damage to a basement bedroom and spreading heavy smoke and heat throughout the rest of the house.

The two victims were identified as an adult male who sustained minor injuries and a six-year-old boy who suffered burns to his lower extremity. Both were transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.

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After conducting an investigation, it was determined that the fire had been started by the six-year-old boy who has developmental disabilities and a history of playing with fire. This is not an isolated incident as it marks the third similar case in Spokane within the past six months. In all three cases, young males with developmental disabilities and a history of fire interest were involved, with fires starting on mattresses in bedrooms. While two incidents resulted in minor or no injuries, one unfortunately led to the death of one individual and injuries to another occupant.

In light of these incidents, Justin de Ruyter, Spokane Fire PIO, wants to remind residents that resources are available for children with an interest in fire or a history of playing with it. The Youth Fire Setting Program is an educational program designed for youth ages 5-12 that aims to teach them about the dangers of fire and involve them in creating a safety plan for their home.

Photos from the scene of the fire have been released, showing the extent of the damage caused by the fire. The first photo shows flames coming out of a basement window, while the second photo shows firefighters working to extinguish the blaze.

The Spokane Fire Department urges all residents to take precautions and educate their children about the dangers of playing with fire. With proper education and support, similar incidents can be prevented in the future.

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