On Tuesday, December 20, 2022 at 1:56 p.m. the Bethel Fire Department responded to the report of flames coming from under a house located at Willow Street and Fifth Avenue. The department responded with a total of ten personnel, one Class-A fire engine, one aerial apparatus, and one ALS ambulance.
Upon arrival, the engine company reported observing heavy smoke and flames coming from under the southeast corner of the home. Firefighters deployed hose lines and initiated fire suppression efforts. The fire was knocked down and the contents were overhauled to check for fire extension into the structure.
The Alaska Village Electrical Cooperative (AVEC) was requested to cut power to the structure. Firefighters placed a fan inside the structure to clear the smoke. The cause of the fire was unintentional and caused by an unattended forced air heater placed on a sewer line. No foul play was suspected.
After ensuring no hazards were present, firefighters turned the home back over to the property owner and returned to service.
The Bethel Fire Department would like to take this opportunity to remind everyone to never leave heaters unattended, as these are a prominent cause of fires during the winter months. If you would like to know more about fire prevention, please contact the fire department at (907) 543-2131.
