Earlier yesterday, the San Bernardino County Fire Protection District (SBCFPD) was dispatched to a residential structure fire that ultimately revealed a heartrending tragedy within the community via the San Bernardino Fire Department. Working tirelessly, the fire department navigated access issues to respond and eventually to extinguish the blaze within twenty minutes of arrival. Despite their best efforts, one fatality was reported, and another individual in the home was transported to an area hospital in grave condition.
Downed power lines and metal-barred windows initially impeded entry to the house, but firefighters managed to make rapid entry once a second access point was discovered. To improve conditions inside the home, additional firefighting personnel deployed to the roof to perform vertical ventilation, which allowed rescue crews to more effectively locate the victims and work on fire attack.
In this case, the investigation conducted by fire investigators discovered that not only were barred exterior windows an issue, but there were also no working smoke detectors found in the home. Had these devices been properly maintained, they may have provided an early warning for the occupants to evacuate the building, and possibly prevent these devastating outcomes.
Indeed, the SBCFPD reminds residents to ensure that working smoke detectors are located on each floor of their homes and in each bedroom, and stresses the importance of having an escape plan in place that is regularly practiced.
