— from Orcas Fire and Rescue Chief Kevin O’Brien —
Orcas Fire and Rescue crews responded to this house fire in the View Haven neighborhood early Sunday morning.
At approximately 12 midnight on Sunday, June 8, Orcas Firefighters responded to the View Haven neighborhood for the report of an explosion and fire in a home. Arriving responders found a 1700 square foot, wood frame home heavily involved in fire and immediately began fire suppression efforts.
The lone occupant of the home told responders that he was alerted to a loud “bang” and saw there was fire extending into his home, originating from a vehicle parked in an adjacent carport. The man then exited his home uninjured.
Twenty-five OIFR responders and 10 apparatus battled the fire through the night and are still on location putting out hot spots.
Initial indicators lead investigators to believe the fire is accidental in nature; however, OIFR and the San Juan County Fire Marshal are investigating the specific cause of the fire.
While engaged in firefighting operations, OIFR responded to an unrelated medical emergency in the View Haven neighborhood. The patient was treated and transported in stable condition to St. Joseph’s Hospital in Bellingham.
Thank you to the OIFR Auxiliary and volunteers for their hard work.
OIFR reminds you to make sure you have working smoke detectors in your home. If you need one, they are free to the public at Eastsound Station 21.
