La Pine Rural Fire Protection District firefighters responded Tuesday night, January 28th, at 7:35 pm, to 52618 Rainbow Drive for a non-residential structure fire with multiple reported injuries. The structure was a detached garage 5’ feet from a residence which is owned by Earl and Holly Smith who also are the residents along with family.
The fire was noticed due to smoke coming from the garage as the family was home and active at the time. After discovery and a call to 911 two adult males family members tried to enter the garage to determine the source of the smoke and fire and tried to salvage two vehicles parked inside. They were overcome by the quickly developing dense smoke and one became visible sick. However, were very fortunate to be able to retreat to safety.
Fourteen firefighters on an engine, two tenders and assorted command vehicles arrived and had to evaluate the persons with smoke inhalation and then quickly knocked down the fire. The smoke inhalation patients declined further treatment and transport. The fire caused heavy smoke and some heat damage to the interior of the garage and the two vehicles. Electrical failure at a 240-volt receptacle box is closely being looked at as the ignition point due to a failed of the wire running through an unprotected box opening. The electrical box and wire were exposed and located behind a large storage shelf in which household items had been placed prior to the fire.
Assistance was requested from Sunriver Fire and Crescent Fire for additional medic units which were ultimately not needed.
The La Pine Rural Fire Protection District wants to remind citizens to never renter a burning structure as it can become deadly in seconds.
