A portable generator placed too close to a Kent home caused a house fire Thursday night in the 27300 block of 154th Avenue Southeast that sent two people to hospitals
Paramedics transported a teenage girl to a hospital due to smoke inhalation but is expected to recover, according to a Kent Fire Department media release. A Kent firefighter also was sent to the hospital for an undisclosed medical reason. The firefighter was treated and released at the hospital.
The fire broke out at 10:38 p.m. and displaced four people. The fire killed a pet cat.
The fire started when heat from a portable generator ignited the cedar siding of the single-story house, according to a fire investigator. The family started up the generator because power was out in the neighborhood because of the icy weather.
Firefighters arrived at the house to find flames shooting through the roof. Freezing conditions made firefighting operations more hazardous than normal as firefighters moved carefully on the snow-covered roof and grounds.
Firefighters had the fire under control by 11:25 p.m. No other homes along the dead-end street were affected.
The family will stay with relatives or neighbors.
During power outages, residents should take certain precautions, according to the Kent Fire Department:
1. Never bring barbecues or generators into the home for heat or cooking. Both produce carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas that can sicken or kill. Ensure that running generators are placed far enough from the home to eliminate any chance of exhaust from entering your living space. If you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning, evacuate your residence and call 911 immediately.
2. Use candles with care. Always place candles in a sturdy, tip resistant base that is away from any combustible materials such as drapes or tablecloths. Always blow out candles when you leave the room – “When you go out, blow it out.”
3. If you are without power and need assistance, the city of Kent has two warming shelters open:
• Kent Senior Activity Center
600 E. Smith St.
Open until 4:30 p.m.
• Kent Commons
525 Fourth Ave. N.
Open until 5 p.m.
Residents can warm up, watch TV, and recharge cell phones and computers.
The city of Kent also has a severe weather shelter at:
• Kent Lutheran Church
336 Second Ave. S.
9 p.m. check in
7 a.m. shelter closes daily
Priority will be given to homeless families with children, but is open to single men and women.
Other local cities have also opened shelters. More information on those shelters can be found by contacting the Crisis Clinic at 211.
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