A high-rise apartment building on 14th Street witnessed a flurry of evacuation as a fire broke out on the fourth floor, spurring action from the residents and the San Diego Fire Department (SDFD). Although firefighters were faced with a third alarm situation reflecting the building's size and occupancy, the installed sprinkler system played a pivotal role in extinguishing the fire.
The SDFD responded promptly to the emergency call, which led to the evacuation of the structure. They managed to contain the fire swiftly, resulting in no fatalities. However, one person was treated at the scene for smoke inhalation but opted out of hospitalization.
Despite the successful quelling of the flames by the sprinkler system, the fire left its mark, causing substantial water damage to the building. The cost of the damage is estimated to be around $150,000. Fourteen residential units on the third floor along with two common areas suffered damage, affecting 15 individuals who were then supported by the building’s property management. The Red Cross was on the scene, ready to provide assistance, but their services were not required in the end.
An incident report by the SDFD stated that an accidental ignition involving a lithium-ion battery was the cause of the fire. A HAZMAT team was called in to address the battery and monitor the air quality as part of the cleanup and safety measures.
The SDFD mobilized a considerable force of 128 personnel to handle the situation. The equipment and units dispatched included 7 Trucks, 1 Division Chief, 4 Administration staff, 1 Medic unit, 1 Helicopter, 18 Engines, 6 Battalion Chiefs, 2 Light and Air units, 1 HAZMAT unit, and 1 Rescue unit. A fire investigator was also brought in to conduct a thorough examination of the incident’s cause and the extent of the impact.
The day following the scare, the fire department expressed appreciation for the support from neighboring cities, National City and Coronado, for their help in managing the emergency. The incident may have been resolved, but its ramifications are still being felt by the local residents and property managers who are faced with the difficult task of recovery and restoration.
