SPOKANE VALLEY, Wash. — The Spokane Valley Fire Department responded to a garage fire twice in one day at the same home.
At approximately 7 a.m., SVFD responded to reports of a fire in a garage on East Everett Avenue, two blocks east of Whitman Elementary School.
According to SVFD, light smoke was coming from the garage, with the homeowner using a garden hose to combat the flames.
SVFD crews were able to extinguish the fire shortly after their arrival.
Multiple lithium-ion batteries and extension cords with splitters were discovered near the ignition source.
Fire investigator Jeff Willits said the fire was incidental. Due to the extent of the damage, the exact cause remains undetermined.
At approximately 3:30 p.m., SVFD responded to a second fire at the same home.
According to SVFD, no smoke or flames could be seen from the residence, but it is working to determine if the occupants can re-enter.
Fortunately, all occupants of the house were safely evacuated.
Fire captain Abraham Nisbet said the danger with these types of fires is they burn very hot, they can be hard to put out and have a chance of reigniting.
“Lithium-ion batteries can be found in lots of common household products, like a leaf blower,” Captain Nisbet said.
SVFD said there are some tips you can take to prevent these types of fires from spreading:
Store batteries in a cool, dry placeRemove fully charged batteries from the chargerCheck expiration dates on batteriesDispose of lithium ion batteries at a household hazardous waste site
For more information visit www.spokanevalleyfire.com/lithiumbatterysafety/ orwww.batterysmartspokane.com
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