||| FROM KAT BARNARD for ORCAS ISLAND FIRE & RESCUE |||
Orcas Island, WA – January 19, 2025 — Orcas Island Fire & Rescue (OIFR) responded to a reported chimney fire at 1:30 PM on the afternoon of Saturday, January 18, 2025. The call, initially dispatched as a chimney fire, was upgraded en-route to a working structure fire based on additional information from the scene.
The first OIFR member to arrive confirmed that all occupants and pets were safely out of the house and accounted for, ensuring no injuries were reported. Fire personnel acted swiftly to contain the fire and minimize damage to the property.
An investigation determined the cause of the fire to be a malfunction in the stovepipe and heat shield. “We’re grateful for the quick response and teamwork demonstrated by our members,” said Acting Fire Chief and County Fire Marshal Chad Kimple. “We’re also relieved that no injuries occurred and that everyone made it out safely. This incident serves as a reminder for homeowners to have their chimneys and heating equipment inspected regularly to help prevent similar situations.”
OIFR would like to thank the community for its continued support and remind residents of the importance of fire safety in their homes. Please ensure your smoke detectors are functioning, and practice safe heating system usage.
OIFR is currently experiencing a shortage of firefighters and is seeking additional volunteers for the West Sound, Deer Harbor, and Orcas Landing fire stations. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Volunteer Coordinator Kat Barnard for more information.
For more information about fire prevention or to schedule a safety inspection, please contact Orcas Island
Fire & Rescue.
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Thank You, Kat and all the volunteers involved in extinguishing the chimney fire/ working structure fire. The response and hard, fatiguing work that you do to keep our Islanders and structures safe is so appreciated. Often the community does not completely understand the effort and resulting fatigue involved in doing your volunteer jobs. Again, Thank You.
Another good reason to switch to a heat pump ASAP. It could save your life!