November 15, 2011 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (SH2011-90) FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION R. Steve Huffman Public Information Officer (251) 208-2857/Fax: (251) 208-2861 E-Mail: huffman@cityofmobile.org CANDLES BLAMED FOR HOUSE FIRE THAT CLAIMS FAMILY PET Firefighters were called to the report of a house fire just before noon on Tuesday, November 15. The single story, wood frame with brick veneer house is located at 4279 Raines Drive and the call was received at approximately 11:54 a.m. When firefighters arrived on the scene they reported the structure fully involved with fire and coming through the roof. Firefighters reported the structure was heavily loaded with combustibles i.e. mattresses, boxes, stuffed animals, etc., which made it difficult to get around inside. At least 4 mattresses had to be removed from inside the front entrance. The owner told arriving firefighters her dog was still inside. Firefighters found the owners dog, brought it outside and attempted to resuscitate the pet but were unable to revive it. The owner, Vicki Sterling, told fire investigators she had numerous candles lit throughout the house, including on top of the clothes dryer. She further stated that while in the far side of the house she smelled the faint odor of smoke. She began to investigate and when she entered the kitchen she saw smoke coming from the laundry room. It was at this time she called out to her son, Kelcy, who was asleep in his bedroom. When Kelcy came to the kitchen, Sterling reported she opened the laundry room door and saw fire on top of the dryer. She attempted to extinguish the fire with a wet rage while her son ran for a garden hose. Neither of them were able to extinguish the flames and at that time made their escape going to the neighbors house. The fire originated in the laundry room and spread throughout the structure and through the roof. The fire was caused by an unattended lit candle which caught nearby combustibles on fire. Damage is estimated at approximately $30 thousand. No injuries were reported. Engines 6, 19, 22; truck 5; rescue 6 and District Chief Elbert Cross responded to the call. The Bureau of Fire Prevention conducted the investigation. TIPS: Ensure when using candles that they are clear of anything that can catch fire. Keep away from children and pets. Never leave candles unattended, extinguish all candles when going to bed or leaving the residence. ###