November 18, 2011 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (SH2011-92) FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION R. Steve Huffman Public Information Officer (251) 208-2857/Fax: (251) 208-2861 E-Mail: huffman@cityofmobile.org FAMILY OF NINE ESCAPE HOUSE FIRE ON WASHINGTON AVENUE A family of nine, two adults and seven children, ranging in ages two weeks to 15 years are lucky to have escaped a fire early Friday morning, November 18, after a pot was left unattended on the stove top. The fire occurred at 355 South Washington Avenue at approximately 1:05 a.m. Firefighters reported heavy fire in the living room, dining room and kitchen of the single story, wood frame with brick veneer structure. The two adults and five of the children had to escape through windows because the normal exits were blocked by fire. Two older boys escaped out a door and banged on windows to alert the other family members. No injuries occurred. The stepfather told fire investigators that sometimes the 15 year olds will get hungry during the night and cook something to eat. It is unknown in this case who may have done so. Investigators found the smoke alarm had been removed. The owner told them that they removed it because it kept going off while cooking. The fire was caused by unattended cooking and caused an estimated $45 thousand in damage. The American Red Cross is assisting the family. Engines 2, 3, 11; truck 24; rescue 3 and District Chief Dexter Pettaway responded to the fire. The Bureau of Fire Prevention conducted the investigation. TIPS: Never completely remove or disable a smoke alarm. If it continues to go off because its close to the kitchen, consider moving it to another location. It is recommended smoke alarms be placed in ever room except the kitchen. Replace the batteries at least once a year and test the alarms monthly. Consider purchasing a ten battery for the alarms and replace the alarms themselves every ten years. Plan and practice home escape plans. Never leave cooking unattended, if you have to leave the kitchen for any reason turn off the stove. Children should be supervised when possible when they are cooking.