On July 25, 2010 at about 9:30 pm, a house fire was reported in the 600 block of South 5th Avenue. Arriving Yuma Fire Department personnel found smoke coming from 641 South 5th Avenue. Firefighters quickly extinguished a fire found in the bedroom of the home. Damage was mostly contained to the bedroom where the fire originated.
Two adults and a small child reside at the home. They had been out and arrived to discover and report the fire. A dog that had been home was not injured. The family is finding other lodging until the damage can be repaired.
The cause of the fire was determined to be an extension cord used to power a window air conditioner. The extension cord was covered and not rated for the electrical load. Heat built up, with the cord and surrounding materials igniting.
It is fortunate the family was not home and asleep when this fire started. The home was not equipped with smoke alarms. Most fatal fires occur during the late night or early evening while people are sleeping. Smoke alarms save lives and are required in rental properties like this one.
Residents of rental properties need to be aware that landlords are required to provide smoke alarms for their properties. Alarms should be tested and (if they are battery powered or have battery back-ups) batteries replaced at least annually.
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