SIOUX FALLS,SD (KELO-AM) Sioux Falls Fire Rescue responded to a report of a structure fire at 315 W. 34th St at 11:38am July 16th, 2016.
On arrival, heavy smoke was visible from the structure. Crews investigated and found fire in the basement. Entry was gained to the structure through a back door and fire was extinguished in approximately 20 minutes. All residents were out of the structure, one resident was treated by Paramedics Plus Ambulance for minor burns. There were no other injuries to residents or firefighters.
After the fire was extinguished, Fire Inspector Curtis Johnson investigated and found the fire started in the basement. Upon further investigation, it was discovered that a resident was fueling a lawnmower inside the structure. Flammable fumes were ignited by a water heater close by.
Sioux Falls Fire Rescue responded with 5 fire trucks and 2 support vehicles with 22 personnel. Sioux Falls Fire Rescue was assisted by Sioux Falls PD, Paramedics Plus Ambulance, MidAmerican Energy, Excel Energy, Animal Control, and the American Red Cross. There were 4 families displaced by the fire, the Red Cross is assisting them.
Sioux Falls Fire Rescue reminds residents to be especially careful with flammable liquids. Flammable liquids should always be stored in approved containers and not inside of structures or next to open flame which can ignite vapors. Also Sioux Falls Fire Rescue would like to remind residents of the importance of working smoke detectors. Detectors should be installed in every sleeping area, outside the sleeping areas, and tested monthly.