Extension Cord Caused Eureka Fire
Press release from Humboldt Bay Fire:
On April 6th, 2019 at 10:52 P.M., Humboldt Bay Fire responded to report of a fire in a home on the 2280 block of Ohio St.
An extension cord underneath a couch had caught a rug and the couch on fire.
Occupants were in bed at the time, and were alerted to the fire due to their working smoke alarms. This gave occupants enough notice to extinguish the fire and evacuate the home until incoming units arrived.
Humboldt Bay Fire responded with 3 Fire Engines, 1 Fire Truck, 1 Command Staff, and 1 Volunteer and were able to further ensure extinguishment of the fire and provide patient care to an occupant who had suffered a minor injury during evacuation. The crews were also able to remove the smoke from the residence and help remove ash and debris from the home.
Damage to the home is localized to the couch and carpet.
One occupant received care and transport for an injury sustained while evacuating.
Humboldt Bay Fire would like to remind the community how important it is to have working smoke alarms in your home. Smoke alarms save lives!
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🕯At least everyone got out alright.
The extension cord was almost certainly being used improperly.
Victim shaming!!!
I would say you are correct, but more interestingly would be why the cord got so hot as to start a fire. Drawing too much current? My thinking is also the longer the cord the more the resistance. Of course, it could be that the cord was repeatably stepped on and after a time the bare wires touched and caused a short. Normally that kicks off the breaker, but a fire could have already started in the carpet. AND I don’t think you were victim shaming.
I’m surprised the Fire District did not mention anything about the use of extension cords in place of permanent wiring.
That would have been a great addition to the article!
I sold a lady a multiple outlet plug and cheap extension recently. I didn’t say anything because people think they know what is best and I don’t need grief from customers. This is what happens. No such thing as accidents. Always stupidity.
Amen to no such thing as accidents.
Yay smoke alarm!