July 25, 2002 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (SH2002-30) FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION R. Steve Huffman Public Information Officer (251) 208-5806/Fax: (251) 208-5813 E-Mail: huffman@cityofmobile.org MOBILE FIREFIGHTERS RESPOND TO TWO POSSIBLE LIGHTNING STRIKE FIRES Mobile firefighters responded to two structures fires on Thursday, morning, July 25, 2002 a result of possible lightning strikes. The first fire, located at 4279 Horloesther Court, was reported at approximately 4:09 a.m. The occupants, James Kelly and Chris Clawson told Mobile Fire Investigators they heard what was believed to be lightning striking the one-story, wood frame structure. They reported that the power went out and the smoke alarm sounded soon after. Both occupants got out of the house apparently without injuries. The fire appears to have originated at the rear of the structure in the utility room where an electrical wire hooked to the security system was located. There was heat damage to the kitchen with smoke damage throughout. Damage was consistent with a lightning strike. Damage is estimated at $70 thousand. No injuries were reported. Engines 15, 18, 22, truck 5, rescue 1 and District 3 Chief John Young responded. Mobile firefighters also responded to a garage fire located at 254 Jackson Blvd at approximately 5:13 a.m. The garage was located behind a house that is a vacant rental property. There were signs of lightning damage in the area surrounding the one story, wood frame garage. No injuries were reported and damage is estimated at approximately $2,000. Engines 6, 19, 23, truck 10, rescue 23 and District 4 Chief Mark Hansberry responded. ###