Family of 5 evacuated from house fire before it spread
YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - On Thursday, a house just south of 7th Avenue caught on fire with a family of five still inside, luckily all family members escaped from the house.
At about 2 a.m., Yuma Fire Department (YFD) was notified of a fire at 1215 South 7th Avenue where light smoke was rising from the home.
Firefighters determined the fire was in the dining area of the home since it was out before they arrived.
They confirmed it had not spread from the dining area, but ventilated the smoke from the house.
Two adults and three children were in the home when the fire was first noticed.
One of the adults was woken up from popping sounds from the fire and smelled smoke.
Thankfully, the family was able to safely evacuate the home while one resident was using a garden hose to put out the fire.
The person who was helping with the fire was evaluated for smoke inhalation and didn't need further medical attention.
According to YFD, the American Red Cross was assisting the scene to help the family and the home was not able to be immediately reoccupied.
YFD says the fire is believed to have been electrical.
They say special care is crucial in making sure extension cords are not covered or pinched.
The house only had one smoke alarm that was not functioning.
YFD mentions how fatal fires happen later in the night or early in the morning when people are asleep.
Tips from YFD are as follows:
- Change batteries annually.
- Test alarms monthly.
- Replace alarms over 10 years old.
