COMMERCIAL STRUCTURE FIRE AND SPRINKLER ACTIVATION -- 805 SE STEPHENS STREET -- 7-20-21

Roseburg Fire Dept.

At 1:34 a.m. on July 20, 2021, Roseburg Fire Department personnel responded to a water flow alarm at the Rose Apartments located at 805 SE Stephens Street. Firefighters arrived on scene to find the sprinkler system activated with water flowing from the fourth floor of the structure. Water was found to be flowing throughout the stairwell and out the front door of the commercial structure. Upon entry into the building, firefighters discovered a fire in the garbage disposal closet on the fourth floor of the structure.

The commercial structure had an automatic fire sprinkler system installed. Firefighters gained access to the basement and located the sprinkler riser room. The sprinkler system was turned off, recharged, and reset. The sprinkler system had activated when exposed to the fire, effectively extinguishing it and preventing the fire from spreading.

A fire investigator was on scene and the fire was determined to be caused by discarded smoking material. The fire damage was contained to the garbage can. The commercial structure suffered water damage throughout the building into several apartments and common spaces.

This is a great reminder that sprinkler systems can not only save lives, it can reduce damage to property if functioning properly. The Roseburg Fire Department would like to remind everyone of the following safety tips:

- Always discard smoldering and spent cigarettes properly. Select ashtrays that reduce the chances of a burning cigarette falling onto carpeting and upholstery.

- Check wastebaskets and cushions in rooms where people have been smoking. Look for cigarette embers that are still burning.

- Smoking and drinking can be as deadly as drinking and driving. If you host a party and allow smoking, check under chair and sofa cushions before going to bed. Get in the habit of watching out for unattended, but smoldering cigarettes.

- Never smoke in bed or anywhere when drowsy. Cigarettes can smolder longer than most bedding materials and upholstery can resist igniting.

- Keep matches and lighters, especially novelty lighters, out of the reach of children. Even a toddler can operate a lighter. Child resistant lighters are not childproof.

Safety tips are courtesy of the Oregon Life Safety Team.