Second Fire in Less than 24 Hours Keeps Responders Busy

Christmas time is proving to be a busy time for Petaluma firefighters who have battled two house fires over the past two days.

The latest blaze occurred Monday afternoon the 1500 block of Pheasant Drive, near La Tercera Elementary School, destroying a shed and a fence, but not causing any injuries. On Christmas Day, firefighters battled flames on a cul-de-sac near Casa Grande, which displaced a family and may have been caused by cigarettes.

The two incidents--less than 24 hours apart--have prompted fire officials to issue a plea for residents to install smoke alarms in their homes.

The Petaluma Fire Department is also reminding residents to put out cigarettes completely, never burn Christmas trees or gift wrapping paper, which can cause a flash fire when it suddenly bursts into flames and burns intensely. In fact, fire officials say, burning papers and other improper fuels in the fireplace is a major case of chimney fires.

"We want people to be aware of the simple fire safety tips and that even small fires can escalate to dangerous situations," said Petaluma Fire Captain Jude Prokop. "Working smoke alarms save lives."

FIRE PREVENTION TIPS FROM THE PETALUMA FIRE DEPARTMENT:

• Never put tree branches or needles in a fireplace or wood burning stove. When the tree becomes dry, discard it promptly. The best way to dispose of your tree is by taking it to a recycling center or having it hauled away by a community pick-up service.

• Be extra careful when smoking. Careless smoking is a leading cause of fire deaths at any time of the year, but the risk goes up during holiday gatherings.  Check carefully for any smoldering smoking materials before going to bed. Never smoke around the tree or flammable decorations.

• Never burn gift wrappings or bulk cardboard.
• Soak hot fireplace or stove ashes in water prior to disposal and place them in a metal container outside your home.