January 31, 2012 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (SH2012-12) FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION R. Steve Huffman Public Information Officer (251) 208-2857/Fax: (251) 208-2861 E-Mail: huffman@cityofmobile.org BACK TO BACK EARLY MORNING FIRES Firefighters are clearing up from two separate structure fires that occurred early Tuesday morning, January 31. The first fire reported at approximately 1:52 a.m. in a house located at 1204 Elmira Street. Firefighters encountered heavy fire in a two-story, wood frame structure upon arrival. The family of three (a female, her step-son and his girlfriend) escaped without apparent injury prior to firefighter’s arrival. The fire appears to have started on the first floor of the structure and spread throughout causing total damage to the structure. The cause of the fire remains under investigation at this time. Damage is estimated at approximately $46 thousand. Engines 3, 8, 11; truck 17; rescue 3 and District Chief David Rose responded. The second fire was reported at approximately 3:13 a.m. this morning at 1055 Alba Street. Firefighters discovered heavy smoke coming from the roof at rear of the single-story, wood frame with brick veneer structure. The elderly female occupant escaped unharmed prior to firefighter’s arrival. Firefighters made entry and discovered fire in a middle bedroom and heater closet with some extension into the attic. The fire appears to have originated in or above the heater closet and was caused by electrical arching and has been ruled accidental. Damage is estimated at approximately $20 thousand. No injuries were reported. Engines 9, 16, 23; truck 24; rescue 23 and District Chief Steve Zirlott responded. The Bureau of Fire Prevention is conducting the investigations. The American Red Cross has been called to assist all victims involved. ###