08/19/2021 | News release | Distributed by Public on 08/20/2021 05:52
SEATTLE - At 6:42 p.m., our Fire Alarm Center received calls reporting a fire at the 700 block of Lander St. Engine 13 was first on scene and confirmed an exterior fire on the west side of a commercial warehouse that had already extended inside and up into the exposed rafters. Crews from Engine 13 worked quickly to put water on the fire while Rescue 1 gained access inside the warehouse to conduct a primary search. Ladder 3 arrived shortly thereafter and climbed onto the roof to cut holes to provide ventilation.
At 6:59 p.m., Battalion 5 upgraded the response to a 2-alarm fire requesting more resources to prevent the fire from spreading to nearby structures. Ten minutes later, crews had the fire under control and completed a primary search confirming no occupants were inside the building.
At 7:24 p.m., the fire was knocked down and crews transitioned to overhaul to check for hot spots. At the height of the incident, more than 70 firefighters were dispatched.
Fire investigators determined the incident was accidental and likely caused by improperly discarded oily rags. Estimated loss is $100,000.
Safety message:
Oils commonly used in oil-based paints, stains and varnishes release heat as they dry. A pile of oily rags can be dangerous because as they dry, the heat is trapped and builds up to potentially cause a fire.
Here are a few safety tips for storing wet, oily rags:
Vapors from flammable and combustible liquids can also ignite, causing a fire. Many commonly used flammable liquids include gasoline, lacquers and nail polish while common combustible liquids include paint thinner, oil-based paints and stains.
Safety tips for storing flammable or combustible liquids: